COMMON YELLOWTHROAT
SR

Though a black mask is normally used as a disguise, on the common yellowthroat it is a means of instant identification. No other warbler has the tight-fitting band of black across its eyes. The little fellow is not a villain, though; on the contrary, it is both friendly and handsome. The mask is set off by yellow and buff-colored underparts with the upper shoulders and wings shading to olive green.

Depending on weather conditions, the yellowthroat arrives in the Historic Triangle area anytime from the last week in April to the first week of May. He announces his coming in full voice: "Witchery, Witchery, Witchery" gradually increasing the emphasis of tinkling notes. Like all warblers, the yellowthroat is shy and restless but, unlike many of its relatives, spends most of its time flitting about in low, thick undergrowth. He is curious and can be enticed closer by squeaking or emitting low whistling sounds.

The yellowthroat is frequently taken advantage of by a cowbird that deposits an egg in the foster nest. The female yellowthroat incubates the egg and takes care of the orphan sometimes to the detriment and ultimate starvation of her own progeny. The nest is large and bulky and is usually placed low to the ground in a patch of cattails or briars and honeysuckle vines along the edge of a marsh.

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