Golden-crowned Kinglet (Latin Name), Riparian @ Gilbert Water Ranch (south end of trail between ponds 3 & 4, Maricopa County

This Golden-crowned Kinglet was discovered by Bernie and Brian Howe and photographed by Bernie Howe on 17 October 2009.

Golden-crowned Kinglet is a rare and irregular winter visitor to the lowlands of Arizona but is more common in winters when high-altitude species erupt into the lowlands.  This year is already showing signs of such an eruption year.

Diagnostic head pattern. 

17 October 2009, photo by Bernie Howe