Plain-capped Starthroat (Heliomaster constantii), Montosa Canyon, Santa Rita Mts., Santa Cruz County

This Plain-capped Starthroat was discovered and photographed by Dave Stejskal on 26 May 2012 away from feeders in Montosa Canyon on the west side of the Santa Rita Mountains.  It was also photographed by Chris McCreedy on 27 May 2012. 

Rare summer visitor. Annual for the last 6 years.  About 20 records total.  Most records of Plain-capped Starthroat in Arizona come from the numerous feeding stations at middle elevations in the southeast region of the state, and most have occurred from late June through September. This bird was highly unusual in that it was away from any known feeding station and it was found in late May (there was only one prior May record for the state before 2012).

The very long bill, large size, short tail, white rump streak, white facial streaks, and red feathering on the gorget are all good marks for this species.

26 May 2012, photo by Dave Stejskal

27 May 2012, photo by Chris McCreedy

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