Watercolor portrait of Louisiana Waterthrush (Parkesia motacilla)

Louisiana Waterthrush

Parkesia motacilla
Breeds from the Great Plains eastward to… Shaded, mature deciduous or mixed forest… Uncommon Territorial Song

Learn to identify the Louisiana Waterthrush by ear. Master the "slurred whistles, chippy jumble" phrase and tell it apart from similar species.

“TEER-teer-teer-teer-teer, chiv-chiv-chiv-chew”

What the Louisiana Waterthrush sounds like

The Louisiana Waterthrush is a large, stream-loving member of the wood-warbler family that often resembles a small thrush. It walks rather than hops, constantly bobbing its rear as it patrols the edges of clear, fast-moving woodland streams in search of prey. Its bold white eyebrow, clean underparts and ringing song are hallmarks of spring along eastern North American waterways.

“slurred whistles, chippy jumble”

How to tell it apart

Listen for:A loud, ringing series of 3–10 clear, descending whistles that accelerate into a jumble of twitters or chips. Given from streamside perches and during flight displays. Often written as “TEER-teer-teer-teer-teer, chiv-chiv-chiv-chew”.
Don't confuse with:The Northern Waterthrush — heavier and more extensive streaking on underparts, extending to flanks

Where you'll hear it

Shaded, mature deciduous or mixed forests with clear, swift streams, ravines and seepages; in winter it frequents tropical forest streams, mangroves and shaded coffee plantations.

Among the earliest wood-warblers to arrive on breeding grounds (late March–April). Nests April–July. Southbound migration begins mid-July, with most gone by late September.

Similar species

Northern Waterthrush

Heavier and more extensive streaking on underparts, extending to flanks

Ovenbird

Distinct orange crown bordered by black stripes

Louisiana Waterthrush song FAQ

What does a Louisiana Waterthrush sound like?
A loud, ringing series of 3–10 clear, descending whistles that accelerate into a jumble of twitters or chips. Given from streamside perches and during flight displays. Listen for the "slurred whistles, chippy jumble" phrase.
How do I tell a Louisiana Waterthrush from a Northern Waterthrush by sound?
Northern Waterthrush: Heavier and more extensive streaking on underparts, extending to flanks; Narrower, often buffy eyebrow that widens behind the eye; Darker legs and usually slightly smaller bill; Song is a series of loud chips and buzzes, lacking the clear whistles of Louisiana.
When is the best time to hear a Louisiana Waterthrush?
Among the earliest wood-warblers to arrive on breeding grounds (late March–April). Nests April–July. Southbound migration begins mid-July, with most gone by late September.