Golden-winged Warbler (Vermivora chrysoptera), The Shores Recreation Area, Gila River, Gila County

This Golden-winged Warbler was found and photographed by Tommy DeBardeleben on 19 May 2017

The Golden-winged Warbler was in Gila County at first as it was on the west side of the river, but when it flew on the east side of the river, it crossed over into Pinal County.

Golden-winged Warbler has declined throughout its range, apparently due to general habitat loss and to losing out in competition with Blue-winged Warbler. Golden-winged Warbler was a regular vagrant to the state during the 1990's, but perhaps due to its general decline, it has been much less frequent since then.

Small grayish warbler, white below with black auriculars and throat. Yellow crown and yellow wing panel. The relatively limited yellow throughout and black on the face indicate a male.

19 May 2017, photo by Tommy DeBardeleben