Blackpoll Warbler (Setophaga striata), Gilbert and Chandler Heights Roads pond, Maricopa County

This Blackpoll Warbler was found by Dale Clark and photographed by Dale Clark, Steve Valasek, and Chris McCreedy on 15 September 2016

Casual in Arizona, more frequently found in fall. One of the most frequent "eastern" warblers in coastal California, but notably more difficult to find in the interior West.

The general structure and plumage characteristics eliminate all species but Bay-breasted Warbler, Blackpoll Warbler and Pine Warbler. Pine Warbler can be eliminated by the distinctly streaked back, white tips on the primaries, and relatively short tail. The characteristics of this warbler that support Blackpoll Warbler over Bay-breasted Warbler are: the white undertail coverts that contrast with the greenish-yellow flanks, the streaked sides on the greenish-yellow breast, gray sides of the neck, and the pale coloration of the legs and feet. In addition, there is no chestnut coloration at all on the sides of this bird, which is sometimes present in fall Bay-breasted Warblers.

15 September 2016, photo by Dale Clark

 

15 September 2016, photo by Steve Valasek

 

15 September 2016, photo by Chris McCreedy

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