Arctic Warbler Identification

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The Four Keys to ID

  • Size & Shape

    A small, compact songbird with a thin, short bill, long wings, and medium-length tail. Physically similar to American warblers (also known as "wood-warblers").

    Relative Size

    Slightly larger than a Wilson’s Warbler, slightly smaller than a Blackpoll Warbler.

    Relative Sizesparrow or smallersparrow-sized or smaller
    Measurements
    • Both Sexes
      • Length: 4.3-5.1 in (11-13 cm)
      • Weight: 0.3 oz (10 g)

Regional Differences

All Alaskan breeders are designated as subspecies kennicotti. Alaskan birds have more grayish (less brownish) olive tones above and are more yellowish below than Eurasian birds (borealis), which also have longer, heavier bills and slightly longer wings than Alaskan birds.

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