Today’s photo features a Yellow-rumped Warbler perched on a White-tailed Deer antler tine in my yard. This antler serves double duty – it adds a nice decorative touch, and it’s also a perfect spot for squirrels to chew on, keeping them away from my deck! This warbler, though, made it a great place to pause for a moment.
Over the past couple of weeks, these little birds have been arriving in my yard here in Arkansas. It’s always a pleasure to see them return. Yellow-rumped Warblers are among the later migrants, moving through Arkansas during the latter part of fall migration. While most birds pass through the state from early September to October, these warblers tend to arrive just a bit later, bringing a nice splash of life to the yard as the season wraps up.
One thing I’ve yet to capture in my photos is the bright yellow patch on their rump, the characteristic that gives them their playful nickname: “butter butt.” It’s an affectionate name birders use to refer to that vivid yellow spot, which stands out like a little dab of butter on their otherwise grayish and streaky bodies.
Even though I haven’t snapped a shot of that famous yellow patch yet, I’m glad to have these energetic birds around. They flit through the trees and shrubs, adding a bit of excitement to the cooler fall days.
If you have any Yellow-rumped Warblers visiting your yard, be sure to keep an eye out for that “butter butt” – it’s a fun detail to spot and one that makes them so special!
Don’t think I’ve seen one. Will keep my eye on my feeder. Love the nickname!
These are very pretty birds Steve and your post about them is very interesting. Thankyou for sharing your knowledge.