Critters of the Week

Where Spotted: Bryan Park
Common Name: Black-and-White Warbler
Scientific Name: Mniotilta varia
Length: 4.3-5.1 in (11-13 cm)
Weight: 0.3-0.5 oz (8-15 g)
Wingspan: 7.1-8.7 in (18-22 cm)

Quick Facts Courtesy of Cornell Lab

• The Black-and-white Warbler is the only member of the genus Mniotilta. The genus name means “moss-plucking,” a reference to its habit of probing bark and moss for insects.
• Black-and-white Warblers have an extra-long hind claw and heavier legs than other wood-warblers, which help them hold onto and move around on bark.
• As warblers go, Black-and-white Warblers are combative: they’ll attack and fight with other species that enter their territory, including Black-capped Chickadees, Red-breasted Nuthatches, and American Redstarts. This aggressive behavior extends to the wintering grounds, where they defend territories and when feeding in mixed flocks will drive other Black-and-white Warblers away.
• The oldest known Black-and-white Warbler was 11 years, 3 months old—a female that was banded in North Carolina in the 1950s and recovered in Pennsylvania more than a decade later.

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Wheat Thin at Richmond SPCA

Wheat Thin is an adorable girl that is looking for just the right home and environment for her. If you’re interested in learning more about Wheat Thin, please contact the Richmond SPCA adoption center at 804-521-1307 to see if she is the one for you!

Age: 4 years, 10 months
Gender: Spayed Female
Color: Black / White
Size: XL (dog size guide)
ID: 45419238

Adopt Wheat Thin at Richmond SPCA

Learn more about their adoption process.