The Magnolia Warbler is a strikingly patterned bird with a black-streaked yellow breast, bold white wing patches, and a unique white tail band visible from below. Despite its name, it was first described from a magnolia tree in migration — it actually nests in spruce-fir forests. It is one of the most common warblers seen at eastern hawk-watch sites in autumn.
Best time to see a Magnolia Warbler
The best time to see a Magnolia Warbler is May–September, when about 82% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 16,259 research-grade iNaturalist observations.
Not certain it is a Magnolia Warbler? What bird is this? walks through what to check first and the lookalikes that catch people out.
Recent Magnolia Warbler sightings near you
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