Blackpoll Warbler (Setophaga striata), Sweetwater Wetlands, Pima County

This Blackpoll Warbler was found by Luke Safford on 14 December 2017 and photographed by Susan Voelker and Michael Welch on 16 December 2017

Casual in Arizona, more frequently found in fall. One of the most frequent "eastern" warblers in coastal California, but notably more difficult to find in the interior West. If accepted by the ABC this would be the latest record for the state by almost a month.

The general structure and plumage characteristics eliminate all species but Bay-breasted Warbler, Blackpoll Warbler and Pine Warbler. Pine Warbler can be eliminated by the distinctly streaked back, white tips on the primaries, and relatively short tail. The characteristics of this warbler that support Blackpoll Warbler over Bay-breasted Warbler are: the white undertail coverts that contrast with the greenish-yellow flanks, the streaked sides on the greenish-yellow breast, gray sides of the neck, and the pale coloration of the legs and feet. In addition, there is no chestnut coloration at all on the sides of this bird, which is sometimes present in fall Bay-breasted Warblers.

16 December 2017, photo by Susan Voelker

16 December 2017, photo by Michael Welch

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