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black and white warbler

bird
Also known as: Mniotilta varia

Quick Summary

The black-and-white warbler (Mniotilta varia) is an eastern North American bird known for its black and white streaking. It has a unique habit of creeping along tree trunks and stems, much like a nuthatch or creeper. This behavior is reflected in an alternative name for the bird: the black-and-white creeper.1

Warblers, in general, are small, active songbirds that primarily eat insects and are found in various habitats like gardens, woodlands, and marshes. The family Parulidae, which includes wood warblers, is known for its brightly colored and active species, often referred to as the "butterflies of the bird world". While many warblers have thin, dry, or buzzing songs, the black-and-white warbler's distinctive appearance and creeping locomotion are its most notable characteristics.23

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