Townsend's Warbler, we're pleased to MEET you!

Townsend's Warbler

The Townsend's warbler (Setophaga townsendi) can be found during the breeding season throughout the coniferous and mixed forests of the western United States. Here in interior Alaska, lies the northern most extent of their breeding range. Favoring tall, mature conifers, these birds are more often heard than seen due to their habit of fluttering around in the tree tops while gleening insects from pine needles. 

I personally have noticed that these birds seem to have quite a high diversity of song variations which may be based on geography. During my time here in Fairbanks, the Townsend's warblers' songs that I have heard tended to have a somewhat similar dialect. Put into words, it sometimes sounds like they might be saying "Pleased to MEET you!" (see https://www.xeno-canto.org/475113) 

The wintering grounds of these warblers is quite expansive; stretching as far north as the Pacific Northwest, and as far south as Costa Rica. Where ever this male Townsend's warbler ends up, we hope he enjoyed his time here in Fairbanks and hope he makes it back next spring to sing another day in Alaska!

~Dave