What does the Magnolia Warbler song sound like?

Setophaga magnolia

Song Common

Play the real Magnolia Warbler song, the "short buzzing phrases accelerating then ending abruptly", and learn what to listen for.

“short buzzing phrases accelerating then ending abruptly”

What the Magnolia Warbler song sounds like

A series of 4–8 high, clear notes that rise then end with a distinctive two-syllable flourish; males sing from mid-story perches at dawn and sporadically through the day.

“short buzzing phrases accelerating then ending abruptly”

Birders often file this one under Wee-ta, wee-ta, wee-tee-o!.

How to find the bird singing it

Breeds in thick second-growth spruce, fir, and pine stands, often with a shrubby understory; during migration it frequents a wider variety of habitats, including deciduous woods, hedgerows, parks, and coastal scrub.

Bold Face Mask: Breeding males show a black mask bordered above by a white eyebrow and below by yellow throat.
Necklace of Streaks: Thick black streaks run down the breast onto the flanks, creating a necklace effect against bright yellow.
White-tipped Tail: Tail underside mostly white with a terminal black band; easily seen when bird flicks or fans tail.

When you'll hear it

Breeding

Males bright yellow below with bold black mask and heavy streaking; females and immatures duller but still show white tail flashes.

Migration

Plumage similar but wear may dull colors; juveniles show broken breast streaks and more olive upperparts.

Winter

Birds wear basic plumage: olive-green back, weaker mask, streaking reduced but yellow still vibrant.

Magnolia Warbler song FAQ

What does a Magnolia Warbler song sound like?

A series of 4–8 high, clear notes that rise then end with a distinctive two-syllable flourish; males sing from mid-story perches at dawn and sporadically through the day. Birders write it as "short buzzing phrases accelerating then ending abruptly".

How do I tell a Magnolia Warbler from a Canada Warbler by ear?

Canada Warbler: Canada Warbler lacks white tail flashes.; Has a complete black necklace but no back stripe..

When is the best time to hear the Magnolia Warbler song?

Arrives on breeding grounds from early May; peaks in migration mid-May and mid-September; nesting June–July with single broods; departs by early October.

More Magnolia Warbler sounds

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