Kirtland's Warbler

Setophaga kirtlandii

The Kirtland's Warbler is a small songbird that breeds in young jack pine forests of Michigan and winters in the Bahamas. Males are known for their striking blue-gray backs and bright yellow underparts, while females and juveniles have more subdued plumage. These warblers are insectivorous and forage actively in the dense foliage of their pine forest habitat. The species has a fascinating conservation story, as it relies on periodic wildfires to create suitable breeding habitat. Due to habitat loss and fragmentation, the Kirtland's Warbler is classified as endangered and is the focus of intensive conservation efforts.

Habitat: Young jack pine forests