A stocky, short-tailed, and relatively drab warbler of Eastern North America with alternating black and buff head stripes, and a fairly large horn-colored bill. Adult is mostly plain olive brown above, buffy on the face and breast, and dingier olive buff on the lower flanks. Black eyeline and lateral crown stripes contrast with buffy supercilium and median crown stripe, creating a stripe-headed look. Sexes are similar.

Length: 13 (cm) Wingspan: 22 (cm)

Voice:

Fast, buzzy trill; call is a single chip note.

Habitat:

Dense, deciduous woodlands and steep forested ravines, usually near streams; may occur in a variety of wooded habitats during migration.

Behavior:

Occupies low canopy, leaf litter, tree trunks, and low branches. When on ground, hops rather than walking. Nest is a cup placed on the ground among dead leaves. Sometimes flocks loosely with other warblers during migration.

Feeding:

Forages in understory, not typically on ground; eats caterpillars ("worms") and insects. Rarely eats earthworms.