During the breeding season, you can spot Northern Waterthrushes in wetland habitats all across northern North America. These lanky warblers have unusually long legs, which allows them to wade through shallow water in pursuit of food. As a result, you’re most likely to spot them near stagnant water–marshes, swamps, ponds, and flooded areas. They spend most of their time low to the ground, which can make them difficult to spot.

The Northern Waterthrush has a pale yellow breast with heavy brown streaking. They have dark brown wings. Their head is pale yellow and brown. They have a yellow “eyebrow” running from their beak to the back of their head. Note their long legs, which are a murky pink color.