Gray-crowned Rosy-Finch (Leucosticte tephrocotis), Echo Cliffs, Coconino County

One Gray-crowned Rosy-Finch was found among a flock of Black Rosy-Finches by Chuck LaRue on 9 December 2018, and a second was found by Chuck LaRue, Jason Wilder, Tom Linda, and Gerry Nealon on 10 December. They were photographed by Brian Johnson on 9 December, by Jason Wilder on 10 December, by Deanna Bibbee on 15 December, and by Chris Rohrer on 21 December 2018.

Casual, with two prior records: one from 2013 and one from 1967. However, this species may occur more regularly than records suggest, as it is irruptive and occurs in remote regions with little birder coverage.

Rosy-finch identification can be challenging. This bird can be identified as a Gray-crowned Rosy-Finch by its warm brown tones on the breast, cheeks and back; neat gray cap, and limited pink on the belly and wings.

9 December 2018, photo by Brian Johnson

10 December 2018, photo by Jason Wilder

15 December 2018, photo by Deanna Bibbee

 

21 December 2018, photo by Chris Rohrer

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