GAP Analysis Predicted Distribution Map

Orange-crowned Warbler (Vermivora celata)

Species Code: VECE

Legend:
= Core Habitat
= Marginal Habitat

Breeding Range Map
The green area shows the predicted habitats for breeding only. The habitats were identified using 1991 satellite imagery, Breeding Bird Atlas (BBA), other datasets and experts throughout the state, as part of the Washington Gap Analysis Project. Habitats used during non-breeding months and migratory rest-stops were not mapped.

Metadata (Data about data or how the map was made)

Click to enlarge distribution map

Other maps & Information:

Breeding Bird Atlas
NatureMapping observations
during breeding season
NatureMapping observations
throughout the year

This warbler is common throughout western Washington at lower elevations in shrubby growth, hardwood forests, wetlands shrubs, and hardwood trees. It is less common in eastern Washington in shrubby habitats in low-elevation forests. It is much less common in mature conifer forests or at higher elevations, and generally nests below 3000 feet. It is a local breeder at many Cascade passes.

Core zones were those below the Silver Fir zone (west side) and the Ponderosa Pine, Interior Douglas-fir, and Sub-alpine Fir zones (east side). Peripheral zones were Silver Fir, Grand Fir, Interior Western Hemlock, Interior Redcedar, and Palouse zones, plus other steppe zones at the very perimeter of the Columbia Basin. In west-side core zones, all habitats were good except estuaries, shorelines, mid-to-high density development, and bare ground (all excluded); low-density development (adequate on the west side; excluded on the east side); and agriculture (excluded on the east side). In peripheral forest zones, good habitats were wetlands, forest openings, and clearings. In peripheral steppe zones, only wetlands were good.

The Orange-crowned Warbler is quite dependent on shrubby hardwood micro-habitats, which occur in most landscapes. Some authorities believe that most Orange-crowned Warblers in the east Cascades are migrants, arguing that late migrants are mistaken for breeders. Others believe a substantial number of them are breeders, and argue that the low number of records is possibly due to the fact that during the breeding season, birds tend to be elusive and quiet.

Translated from the Washington Gap Analysis Bird Volume by Uchenna Bright
Text edited by Gussie Litwer
Webpage designed by Dave Lester