Bird Description

Fairly common in field edges, brushy areas, and mangroves. Often at head height, it feeds lower than many other warblers but not on the ground. One of 3 species (KIWA, PAWA) that always pumps tail, revealing its white outer tail feathers. Often the only warbler left singing in the midday sun - buzzy 'zee' notes steadily rising in pitch. Moves deliberately as though making sure it has enough time to pump tail. ID: A lightweight warbler with a slim feel due in large part to its long tail. Smooth lines, domed head, and pot belly. Focus on distinctive face pattern: pale line above eye and arc below it. All have yellow underparts with streaked flanks, uniform upperparts with weak wing bars. Ad ? br: boldly marked with rufous on back. In fall, colors subdued and rufous often difficult to see. Ad ?/ 1st-yr ?: duller version of ?. 1st-yr ?: browner upperparts, paler yellow underparts with weak streaks.