The Ubiquitous Yellow-rumped Warbler
The Yellow-rumped Warbler (Setophaga coronata), formerly referred to as a Myrtle Warbler, is not hard to find during its migration due to the large numbers that pass through (as well as stay to breed in) central and northern New England. These tiny jewels, also known as “butter-butts” because of their bright yellow rumps, are common and widespread.
Yellow-rumps are known for the diversity of their feeding techniques as well as their diet. You are as likely to find them clinging to a tree, probing under bark or foliage gleaning for insects as you are finding them taking short bursts of flight off of a branch to snag an insect in the air. These warblers are insect-eaters during the summer and consume a large amount of fruit during the winter. Their ability to digest the waxes in bayberries makes them unique among warblers, and allows populations to winter along the coast as far north as Nova Scotia.
The presence of “pantaloons” on this image of a male Yellow-rumped Warbler may be due to courtship behavior. Males hop from perch to perch, fluff out their feathers, raise their wings, erect their crown-feathers, and continuously chip in an effort to attract a female.
Should you choose to use your ears to locate this coniferous forest-loving warbler, its song can be heard at http://musicofnature.com/mary-holland/yellow-rumped-warbler/ . (Sound recording © Lang Elliott – langelliott.com)
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Naturally Curious with Mary Holland 
If the yellow-rumped warbler were rare, we would be oohing and aahing to see it. But since it is so common, we say, “oh, it’s just a yellow-rump,” almost with disappointment or annoyance, and scan the trees for something “better.” But to love what is common brings joy, so let us all love the common birds the best – the robins, the blue jays, the mourning doves, and the beautiful yellow-rumped warblers.
May 6, 2016 at 10:21 am
You are so right, Kathie!
May 6, 2016 at 1:53 pm
Love the fluffed up photo – I’ve never seen one like that!
May 6, 2016 at 1:55 pm
And then there is this. I love reading these daily posts. B.
May 9, 2016 at 10:09 pm
This yellow-rumped warbler post was a great way to introduce warblers to my 7th grade students in science. Thanks for all the great posts!
May 17, 2016 at 2:19 pm