prothonotary warbler

American  

noun

1. a wood warbler, Protonotaria citrea, of the eastern U.S., having an orange-yellow head and underparts, and bluish-gray wings and tail.

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Etymology

Origin of prothonotary warbler

An Americanism dating back to 1780–90; so called because its coloration resembles the robes traditionally worn by prothonotaries

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

prothonotary warbler

Preparing to release a prothonotary warbler after banding it at the Fort Morgan State Historic Site in Fort Morgan, Ala., last month.Credit...

From New York Times ● Nov. 14, 2023

The area is a breeding place for the prothonotary warbler and habitat for dragonflies and damselflies.

From Washington Post ● Nov. 21, 2016

If you’ve never seen an indigo bunting, a rose-breasted grosbeak, or a prothonotary warbler, you really need to watch this film.

From Slate ● Jul. 16, 2012

Alger Hiss was an amateur ornithologist, Chambers said, and once had told Chambers how he had seen a prothonotary warbler on the banks of the Potomac.

From Time Magazine Archive

Range—North America, except Southwestern States, where the prothonotary warbler reigns in its stead.

From Bird Neighbors An Introductory Acquaintance with One Hundred and Fifity Birds Commonly Found in the Gardens, Meadows, and Woods About Our Homes by Blanchan, Neltje