A medium-sized (6 inches) wood warbler, the Ovenbird is most easily identified by its light brown upperparts, streaked breast, and orange crown patch. In many respects, this species resembles the related waterthrushes or a small true thrush, but none of those birds possesses this species’ distinctive orange crown. Male and female Ovenbirds are similar in all seasons. The Ovenbird breeds across eastern and central portions of the United States and Canada. In winter, this species may be found in central and southern Florida, the West Indies, Mexico, and Central America. The Ovenbird is absent as a breeding bird from the southeastern U.S., upper Midwest, and northern Great Plains, but may occur in those areas while on migration. Ovenbirds breed in a number of woodland habitats, primarily dense forests partially or entirely composed of deciduous trees. In winter, this species may be found in a number of subtropical or tropical forest types. Ovenbirds primarily eat small invertebrates, notably ants. In appropriate habitat, Ovenbirds may be seen walking on the forest floor while searching for insects in and among dead leaves. Birdwatchers may also listen for this species’ song, a loud “teacher teacher teacher” commonly heard in northern forests in spring. Ovenbirds are primarily active during the day, but, like many migratory songbirds, this species migrates at night.
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Bibliographic Citation: Rumelt, Reid B. Seiurus aurocapilla. June-July 2012. Brief natural history summary of Seiurus aurocapilla. Smithsonian's National Museum of Natural History, Washington, D.C.
