Look for Pine Warblers at Suet Feeders

Courtesy Christine Ramey

How to Identify and Attract Pine Warblers

“What is this yellow bird that visits my feeder?” asks Christine Ramey of Springfield, Georgia.

That’s a special visitor because it’s a member of the warbler family. And since warblers are insect eaters, most aren’t attracted to feeders. One main exception is the pine warbler. They regularly visit suet feeders, especially in the Southern states during winter. They also sometimes eat sunflower seed.

Learn how to feed and attract birds all year long.

This particular warbler (above) is male. Key field marks include the bright yellow underparts with streaks at the sides of the chest, and the detailed pattern around and below the eyes.

You can also identify this bird by its preferred habitat. As indicated by its name, look for pine warblers in groves of pines. Like other warblers, they are often spotted high in the treetops. Their song sounds similar to a chipping sparrow or dark-eyed junco.

Psst—here’s how to identify yellow warblers and palm warblers.

Courtesy Mark Benson

“Every year I make pinecone treats by smearing them with a mixture of peanut butter, oats, cornmeal, chopped raisins and birdseed. I attach a small branch to serve as a perch. It’s fun to see birds like the pine warbler stop for a snack,” says Sue Mohrmann of Carrollton, Virginia.

Next, check out photos of warblers you should add to your life list.