Midwest · Mississippi Flyway
Are There Black-and-white Warblers in Illinois?
Yes, but uncommon — Black-and-white Warblers occur in Illinois mainly from May to September. Mniotilta varia · Parulidae
Is the Black-and-white Warbler Found in Illinois?
Black-and-white Warblers do occur in Illinois, but they are considered uncommon. Encountering one requires patience and the right habitat during migration windows.
Where to see them instead: the nearest states where Black-and-white Warblers occur regularly are Indiana (about 160 miles away), Missouri (about 200 miles away) and Iowa (about 250 miles away).
Often mistaken for Black-and-white Warblers in Illinois: White-breasted Nuthatch, Brown Creeper, Black-capped Chickadee and Yellow-rumped Warbler — these occur regularly in Illinois, so compare them carefully before concluding you saw a Black-and-white Warbler.
Black-and-white Warbler is a North American backyard bird.
In Illinois, this species is classified as uncommon. It passes through Illinois during migration. The best months to observe this bird are May, August, September. Peak activity occurs in September.
Monthly Activity — Black-and-white Warbler in Illinois
Relative frequency of observations by month. Higher bars indicate peak periods for this species.
Identification
Best Time to See Black-and-white Warbler in Illinois
Other birds in Illinois
Birds you might also encounter in Illinois.
Black-and-white Warbler in other states
Black-and-white Warbler in Illinois: Quick Facts
The Black-and-white Warbler (Mniotilta varia) is an uncommon bird in Illinois. It is classified as a migrant / transient in the state, falling within the Midwest region and the Mississippi Flyway migration corridor.
The best months to spot this species in Illinois are May, August, September. For birders in Chicago and throughout Illinois, knowing the seasonal patterns of Black-and-white Warbler can help plan birding trips and backyard feeding strategies.
Use the monthly activity chart above to plan your birding outings, and explore other bird species found in Illinois using the related birds section.