Setophaga ruticilla

09/19/06

American Redstart - Setophaga ruticilla

Spring Migration

The American Redstart is an uncommon to fairly common spring migrant at Kennesaw Mountain.   The early date for spring migration is April 8th.  The single day high count for this species in spring is 15 individuals observed on May 6, 1993. The late date is May 23rd.  The peak passage of redstarts is usually between April 28th and May 12th. 

Fall Migration

This is one of the first returning warblers and is fairly common in the fall.  Early migrants have been found on Kennesaw as early as July 17th.  These birds are no doubt local breeders from nearby areas that are dispersing.   The single day high count for this migrant is 37 individuals observed on September 14, 2001!  The late date for this species is October 24th. The peak passage in the fall usually occurs between September 2nd and October 3rd.

Photo Credits (left to right): G. Beaton, E. Horn, E. Horn

Photo credits (left to right): E. Horn, B. Zaremba, B. Zaremba, B. Zaremba, B Zaremba

For additional information on identifying warblers, visit Giff Beaton's extensive web site on Warbler Identification tips at: Warblers