Prothonotary Warblers, or Golden Swamp Warblers as they are sometimes called, are the only eastern wood warbler that nests in cavities. Lucy’s Warbler in the west is the only other.
Natural cavities abandoned by woodpeckers over or near water is their preference, but they will use nest boxes in shaded areas near standing water. This makes it possible for us to help them re-establish within restored habitats and putting up artificial boxes has proven to be helpful.
Photo by hart_curt
Preserving the National Wildlife Refuges (NWR) is an important key to saving many endangered bird species, including the Prothonotary Warbler. Buying duck stamps helps save NWR habitats.
We can also help the Prothonotary Warbler by coordinating nest box projects. Because their habitat is so localized, they are very vulnerable to habitat destruction.
The Birdfreak Team is hoping to bring a project such as this to Winnebago County through our own bird club, the North Central Illinois Ornithological Society.
Two organizations currently involved in Prothonotary Warbler Projects are The Mattaponi and Pamunkey Rivers Association and Richmond Audubon Society, both in Virginia.
Related Information
- NOAA Chesapeake Bay Nesting Box Project
- Heard Nature Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary Webcam photos
- Prothonotary Warbler Nest Box Plans
Prothonotary Warbler male – Photo by c-eight
These are lovely little birds. We see them sometimes at the Abita Creek Flatwoods Preserve (a TNC-operated nature site close to our home.) Saw a couple just last weekend (I think it was.)