The buzzing resonated in my ears as I fought off another night of sleep on the Togiak River. From the safety of my tent, I estimated 300 mosquitoes were waiting without shame for their morning meal. I sat for a while planning my next move... a hooded sweatshirt perhaps, or maybe the full protection of a bug net. While postponing my exit, a small black-capped, gray/green bird came bounding into my vestibule and gobbled up many of the little insects. Who was this new friend? Welcome to Field Notes. I’m Daniel Laven, a Biological Technician with the Togiak National Wildlife Refuge.

Wilson’s Warblers make their way north every spring and can be seen along streams or wetlands containing trees and shrubs. They are small birds, about 4 and a half inches long, and have yellowish bodies with grey/green wings. Males are easily identified by their bright yellow heads that are capped in black. Females may also have some black markings on their heads, but this is highly variable.

Nesting pairs can be found as far south as New Mexico, and as far north as Arctic regions in Alaska with suitable habitat. These birds feed primarily on insects, and are unusual among the warblers because they build their nests on the ground. Possible nesting sites include mosses or sedges, or areas at the base of alders and willows. Wilson’s Warblers construct their nests from materials such as dead leaves, weed stalks, and grasses.

Females lay about five cream-white eggs with brown speckles. After laying eggs, the females will incubate for approximately eleven days. Initially, the new hatchlings are dependant on their parents for food and shelter, however, they usually leave the nest after ten days. Once on their own, the young birds spend the summer gaining strength and honing their flight skills in preparation for their first migration.

As summer blends into fall, Wilson’s Warblers begin their long journey to the warmer climates of the neo-tropics. It still remains unclear as to how they navigate during their journey. Some studies suggest that the birds learn to read the stars, while others point to a more instinctive component. In either case, these biannual migrations are impressive, especially after considering hazards such as predation, bad weather, and exhaustion.

If you find yourself on a boating trip this summer, or decide to brave the bugs on land, keep a watchful eye on the alder thickets. You just might spot a Wilson’s Warbler fluttering about. For Field Notes, I’m Daniel Laven.