CERULEAN WARBLER

Introduction

The cerulean warbler (Dendroica cerulea) is a rare and local breeder primarily in the southern portions of BCR 14. Its population may be slowly increasing due to forest maturation. It prefers extensive mature deciduous forest in floodplain situations. It is listed as a Species of Greatest Conservation Need in one or more states in BCR 14.

Habitat Needs

This bird prefers large tracts (500 acres or more) of mature deciduous forest located in floodplain or bottomland with tall trees, a semi-open canopy and a sparse understory. It occupies the upper portion of the canopy and tree species are less important than tree size. Sparse understories and closed or semi-open canopies are important habitat components. It feeds primarily on various insects.

Its territory is about 10 acres.

Habitat Management Practices

Maintain relatively large areas of riparian and floodplain forest in a mature closed-canopy condition. Design forest management to retain a closed canopy and a sparse understory.

This is a riparian species. There are several published management guidelines for floodplain and riparian forest and larger water bodies. Use guidelines pertaining to third order or larger streams. See suggested riparian management guidelines under Non-Forest Palustrine riparian type.

When assessing properties for habitat potential look for floodplain soils such as Abenaki, Fryeburg, Hadley, Lovewell, Metallak, Occum, Ondawa, Podunk, Pootatuck or Winooski soils among others.

Silvicultural Practices

  • Occasional light thinning or a modified version of single tree selection that maintains a high Q-factor focused on retaining a high percentage of large diameter trees.

Additional Information