Drab warbler dressed in subtle shades of olive, brown, and buff. Note black and tan stripes on head and long, sharp bill. Pinkish legs. This skulky warbler is often seen in the understory, probing clumps of dead leaves in search of insects. Prefers steep dry slopes in deciduous woodlands. Listen for males singing a dry, insectlike trill that is very similar to Chipping Sparrow. Appearance most similar to Swainson's Warbler; distinguished by head pattern (Swainson’s has a rufous crown, Worm-eating has a striped head) and habits (Swainson's usually found on the ground, Worm-eating in low understory).