Adult male is striking, with bright yellow underparts and face, greenish-yellow wings and back, black "hood" wrapping from rear crown around the throat. Female and immature male superficially resemble the smaller Wilson's Warbler, but note the diffuse black hood pattern extending onto nape, and white outer tail feathers, which are conspicuous in flight.

Length: 13 (cm) Wingspan: 20 (cm)

Voice:

Loud, clear, whistled phrase, slurred at the end; compare Chestnut-sided Warbler. Call is a single, loud chip note.

Habitat:

Mature hardwood forests, swamps, damp woodlands with thick undergrowth.

Behavior:

Occupies shady sub-canopy, typically within three meters of ground. Often located by loud, clear vocalizations, or conspicuous flashing of white spots in tail. Nest is a cup of grasses and fibers placed in a low shrub or tree. Frequently feeds on the ground.

Feeding:

Forages by gleaning understory foliage; eats a variety of insects and other small prey, and occasional sugar water and fruit.