What does the Common Yellowthroat song sound like?
Geothlypis trichas
Song Common
Play the real Common Yellowthroat song, the "witchity-witchity-witchity", and learn what to listen for.
“witchity-witchity-witchity”
What the Common Yellowthroat song sounds like
A distinctive, rolling 'witchity-witchity-witchity' or 'witch-i-ty, witch-i-ty' sung from exposed perches by territorial males.
“witchity-witchity-witchity”
How to find the bird singing it
Thick, tangled vegetation in wetlands, prairies, pine forests, hedgerows, and disturbed sites across North America.
- Black Mask: Males have a distinctive black mask bordered by a grayish-white band above.
- Yellow Throat: Bright yellow throat and breast in males; females show yellow wash on throat.
- Olive Upperparts: Olive-green back and wings provide camouflage in dense vegetation.
When you'll hear it
Spring
Males arrive first on breeding grounds and establish territories with persistent singing.
Summer
Breeding pairs raise young in well-concealed nests near the ground in dense vegetation.
Fall
Begin migration to wintering grounds; young birds may show incomplete masks.
Winter
Found in southern U.S., Mexico, and Central America in similar dense, low habitats.
Common Yellowthroat song FAQ
What does a Common Yellowthroat song sound like?
A distinctive, rolling 'witchity-witchity-witchity' or 'witch-i-ty, witch-i-ty' sung from exposed perches by territorial males. Birders write it as "witchity-witchity-witchity".
How do I tell a Common Yellowthroat from a Wilson's Warbler by ear?
Wilson's Warbler: Male has black cap rather than mask; Brighter yellow overall.
When is the best time to hear the Common Yellowthroat song?
Most active during daylight hours, skulking through dense vegetation and singing from exposed perches.
More Common Yellowthroat sounds
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