Blackpoll Warbler (Dendroica striata), Tolleson, Maricopa County

This Blackpoll Warbler was discovered and photographed by Bill Grossi on 13 October 2009 in his backyard in Tolleson. 

Blackpoll Warbler is a casual transient in Arizona with around 20 total records. 

Size, bill shape and active movement identifies the bird as a warbler. As with most Fall warblers the first thing to note is whether it has wing bars. The undertail color is important to note, as well as the overall color and streaking. This bird has long, white undertail feathers, faintly streaked back, two bold wing bars, and much greenish-yellow on the breast and face, which point to it being a Blackpoll Warbler.  The yellow feet characteristic of Blackpoll are also visible in the first photo.

13 and 14 October 2009, photos by Bill Grossi