Black-capped Gnatcatcher (Polioptila nigriceps), Florida Canyon, Pima County

This Black-capped Gnatcatcher was found by Laurens Halsey and Joe Hammond and photographed by Laurens Halsey on 16 March 2011

Reports of this species have declined significantly recently after a surge of reports in the past few years. First report since May 2010 for this location.

Poor images, long thick bill & distinctive call (not recorded).  Graduated outer tail feathers not as strong as in some.  Hybrids are always something to consider when this is the case. Presumed male by black streak over eye (not evident in photos).

16 March 2011, photo by Laurens Halsey