Its range is extending northwards, where it is replacing the very closely related golden-winged warbler (Vermivora chrysoptera).

The common name blue-winged warbler refers to the bluish-gray color of the wings that contrast with the bright yellow body of the male.

The blue-winged warbler was one of the many species originally described by Carl Linnaeus in his 18th-century work, Systema Naturae, though the scientific name has changed several times.

Originally, the blue-winged warbler evolved on the interior of the continent, while the golden-winged species bred closer to the Atlantic coast.

[6] Studies reveal that the two species are genetically 99.97% alike,[7] and that their main differences are their general phenotypic appearances and singing tones.

This species forms two distinctive hybrids with the golden-winged warbler where their ranges overlap in the Great Lakes and New England area.

The more common and genetically dominant Brewster's warbler is gray above and whitish (male) or yellow (female) below.

It has a narrow black line though the eyes and light blueish gray with two white wing-bars, which are diagnostic field marks.

The blue winged warblers are generally small in size with a well-proportioned body, and heavy pointed bill.

[11] Immature or juvenile blue-winged warblers are smaller compared to adults and will show a pinkish bill and almost invisible wing bars.

[14] Blue-winged warblers are generally found in areas located in higher elevation and high percentage of grass and canopy cover.

Some examples of larvae fed to juvenile blue-winged warblers include Aphis sp., and Corythucha sp.

Often, researchers presume that the species's diet and feeding methods tend to differ on each season and habitat, and may also change due to the availability of resources.