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Northern Waterthrush

Seiurus noveboracensis ORDER: PASSERIFORMES FAMILY: PARULIDAE

IUCN Conservation Status: Least Concern

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Northern Waterthrush Photo

© Kevin T. Karlson

A bird of northern forests, the Northern Waterthrush sings it loud, ringing song from wooded swamps and bogs. It can be seen on migration bobbing its tail near wet spots in parks or back yards.

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Appearance

Warblers
Warblers
Typical Voice

Adult Description

  • Small songbird.
  • Brown back.
  • Whitish or creamy underside with dark stripes.
  • Whitish or yellowish eyestripe.
  • Constantly bobs its tail.

Immature Description

Immature similar to adult.

Range Map Help

Northern Waterthrush Range Map
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Field MarksHelp

Similar Species

  • Very similar to Louisiana Waterthrush. Louisiana usually has an unstriped throat, a slightly larger bill, a broader white eyestripe that extends back onto the nape, brighter pink legs, and more whitish underparts.
  • Ovenbird is more olive on back, is whiter underneath, has a white eyering, and orange and black crown stripes.
  • Thrushes are spotted, not streaked, on the chest.