Blackcap Warbler

Scientific name: Sylvia atricapilla

Did you know: The Blackcap Warbler, often called the ‘northern nightingale’, is admired for its enchanting fluting song, akin to the sweet sounds of a nightingale!

What Do Blackcap Warblers Look Like? (how to identify them)

Blackcap Warblers are known for their distinctive greyish appearance. The males are easily recognisable by their black caps, whereas the females don a chestnut brown cap. 

These charming warblers measure around 13 cm in length, with a wingspan of 20-23cm, and weigh about 21g.

Differences Between Male And Female Blackcap Warblers

The male Blackcap Warbler sports a striking black cap, while the female’s cap is a rich chestnut brown. This prominent colour difference is the easiest way to distinguish between the sexes.

What Do Blackcap Warblers Eat?

Their diet primarily consists of insects and berries. During the summer, they feast on a variety of insects, while in the colder months, they switch to berries, demonstrating their versatile feeding habits.

Where Do Blackcap Warblers Live? (inc. migration info)

Blackcap Warblers are versatile in habitat preference, favouring woodland, urban, and suburban areas, as well as farmlands. 

Originally summer visitors from Germany and northeast Europe, they are increasingly overwintering in the UK, adapting to the milder winters and abundant food sources.

Bird Calls & Songs (the unique voices of Blackcap Warblers)

Blackcap Warblers are celebrated for their melodious and rich warbling, often culminating in a high-pitched crescendo. Their song is a symphony in the avian world, earning them the nickname ‘northern nightingale’.

Fun Blackcap Warbler Facts (kid friendly)

• Known for their beautiful, nightingale-like singing.
• Males have black caps, while females wear chestnut brown caps.
• They switch from insects in summer to berries in winter.
• Increasingly spending winters in the UK, instead of just being summer visitors.
• Can be found in parks and gardens, not just in woodlands.
• Weigh about the same as 3 pens (21g).
• They have a wingspan of 20-23cm, aiding their skilled flying.
• Often seen in suburban areas, becoming a common sight.
• Originally migrating from northeast Europe.
• Help in seed dispersal of berries they consume.

Blackcap Warbler Video

Facts About The Blackcap Warbler

Diet: Insects and berries.
Length: 13 cm
Wingspan: 20-23 cm
Weight: 21 g
Scientific Name: Sylvia atricapilla

The Blackcap Warbler Can Be Seen In The UK During The Following Months

• January
• February
• March
• April
• May
• June
• July
• August
• September
• October
• November
• December

Tagged

Altricial Birds Black And White Bird Black Headed Bird Grey Bird With Black Head Grey Birds Migratory Birds Rare Birds Resident Birds Small Birds Summer Birds Warblers Woodland Birds

Blackcap Warbler Images