Black-capped Gnatcatcher (Polioptila nigriceps), Rock Corral (Atascosa Highlands, eastern portion), Santa Cruz County

This Black-capped Gnatcatcher was found by Rich Hoyer on 19 April 2011 at Atascosa Highlands (Rock Corral area) about 1 mile up the trail during a Tucson Audubon Trip and photographed by Mark Sharon the same day .  Black-capped Gnatcatchers were reported in this area in 2004, 2005 and 2010. 

Black-capped Gnatcatcher has been an extremely rare resident in SE Arizona.   Historically, influxes of this species from Mexico have occurred sporadically and have persisted for a few years afterwards, followed by several years with no records.  However, the incursion that began in 2002 appears to be the most widespread and longest lasting. Black-capped Gnatcatchers increased in numbers and were found in an increasing number of areas.  However, over the last year or so, reports have declined and numbers seem to have decreased. 

Note extensive black cap and graduated tail feathers. 

19 April 2011, photo by Mark Sharon