Setophaga americana is a migratory bird that breeds in eastern North America and winters in the Caribbean, Central America, and the northern parts of South America, particularly along the Andes and the Caribbean coasts. It occupies deciduous and mixed forests during the breeding season and favors tropical lowland forests, mangroves, and shaded plantations during migration and winter. Though typically associated with forested areas, it is occasionally seen in urban parks and large gardens during migration. The species’ movements follow a trans-Gulf migration pattern, with many individuals flying non-stop over the Gulf of Mexico between breeding and wintering grounds.

This species measures about 4.7 to 5.1 inches in length and weighs approximately 0.3 to 0.4 ounces. Adult males have a dark blue back with black streaks, a yellow throat and chest, white belly, and white wing bars, while females and juveniles are paler with less contrast. Setophaga americana forages actively in the foliage, probing into clusters of leaves and sometimes hanging upside down to inspect leaf undersides. It feeds primarily on insects, spiders, and caterpillars, but also consumes berries in the non-breeding season. Breeding pairs are generally monogamous, and nests are built in shrubs or small trees, often within 5 to 10 feet of the ground. The nest is cup-shaped and made from grasses, bark strips, and spider webs. Clutches typically contain four to five eggs, which are incubated for about 12 days. Both parents feed the young. The global population is estimated at approximately 14 million individuals, and the species is currently classified as Least Concern. Photographed in Colombia.