Initially this guide displays common birds of all types that are flying right now in our area. Use the selectors below to view rare birds, view birds flying any time, restrict the output to a certain shape of bird, or search by name.
New Mexico is on the western edge of the Central Flyway which is one of the major migration pathways between north and south for birds traveling between breeding and wintering grounds along the Rocky Mountains. This has resulted in the state having an incredible diversity of birds with over 550 different species reported. A little more than half of this number are sighted annually on the Pajarito Plateau. Some of these birds are full-time residents, some migrate here for a few weeks or months, and other are only seen briefly as they pass through the region.
This guide features many of the birds known to frequent Los Alamos county by when they are likely to be seen in the area. You can get additional information on local birds by joining PEEC Birders or going to the eBird website. eBird also includes lists of rare bird sightings and birding hot spots.
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Showing 120 of 176 birds.
 Photo: male by Betsy Matsubara  Photo: female by Betsy Matsubara  Photo: nest by Ryan J. Daniels |  Bushtit, American Bushtit; Least TitmouseBUSH (Psaltriparus minimus)Family: Aegithalidae (Bushtits) Size: 3.8 - 4 in (10 - 10 cm) Flies: Jan 01 - Dec 31 Morphology: both sexes are similar with gray and brown plumage; males have a dark rim around the eye while females have a yellow one Status: native; common Food source: wide variety of tiny insects, insect eggs, spiders, berries and some seeds Habitat: deciduous growth, chaparral, pinyon-juniper and pine-oak woods The American Bushtit is the smallest passerine bird in North America. These birds are very sociable, particularly in winter when they form flocks and will even huddle together on cold nights. They are most often seen congregating in trees or at feeders in large groups. When ready to move on, they tend to fly off one at a time and may perform acrobatic stunts. Bushtits tend to forage in flocks except when nesting. They probe at the base of leaves or needles for insects. Bushtit nests are hang down from a branch and are made of moss and lichen held together with spider silk and lined with feathers. Both parents incubate and fed the young (eggs hatch in about 12 days, young fledge in approximately 2 weeks; typically 2 broods per year). Info Photos Distribution Frequency |
 Photo: breeding male by Maggie Smith  Photo: non-breeding male by Diana-Terry Hibbitts  Photo: female by Fyn Kynd | Lazuli BuntingLAZB (Passerina amoena)Family: Cardinalidae (Cardinals, Grosbecks, and Allies) Size: 5 - 5.5 in (13 - 14 cm) Flies: Apr 15 - Oct 01 Morphology: breeding males are brilliant blue above with a pumpkin-colored breast and a white belly; non-breeding males have mottled blue and tan head and back with pumpkin-colored breast; females are grayish-brown above with pale cinnamon or tan breast Status: native; uncommon Food source: seeds make up most of winter diet; insects are more than half of summer diet; young fed mostly insects Habitat: brushy ravines and slopes, cleared areas, weedy pastures Typical location: Rio Grande In summer male Lazuli Buntings will sing out from the treetops but the plainer females tend to remain hidden in thick bushes. During migration, though, both sexes are more conspicuous as whole flocks can be seen foraging. They most often search for seeds on the ground or in low growth and occasionally take insects while hovering. They may visit feeders and water gardens. Cup-shaped nests constructed of grasses and roots can be found in bushes. The young hatch in about 12 days and leave the nest in another 10 to 12 days. The Lazuli Bunting and Indigo Bunting may cross-bred in areas such as the Southwest where their breeding ranges overlap. Info Photos Distribution Frequency |
 Photo: adult by Greg Lasley  Photo: adult by Christian Schwarz | Brewer's SparrowBRSP (Spizella breweri, Spinus psaltria)Family: Emberizidae (New World Sparrows and Allies) Size: 5 in (13 cm) Flies: Apr 01 - Oct 21 Morphology: adults have a gray-brown back with streaks, a gray breast, and a thin white eyering Status: native; uncommon Food source: seeds and insects; can survive for long periods of time without water eating only dry seeds Habitat: sagebrush, alpine meadows Typical location: The Stables The Brewer’s Sparrow has few field marks and is easily confused with other sparrows. It forages on the ground and in low shrubs. Outside of breeding season, these birds typically forage for food as part of a flock which may include other species of sparrows. Males sing in spring to defend their nesting territory but may also sing as part of a chorus in winter while perched on top of desert shrubs. Nests are well hidden and cup-shaped. Little is known about the young except that they typically leave the nest at a little over a week of age prior to being able to fly. Info Photos Range Frequency |
 Photo: breeding adult by Gowri Srinivasan  Photo: non-breeding adult by Mouser Williams  Photo: immature by Bob Walker | Chipping SparrowCHSP (Spizella passerina)Family: Emberizidae (New World Sparrows and Allies) Size: 5 - 5.5 in (13 - 14 cm) Flies: Mar 15 - Nov 01 Morphology: breeding adults have a pale face, black line through the eye, and a bright rusty crown; non-breeding adults have more subdued coloring particularly for the crown; immatures have a dark crown and streaky plumage Status: native; locally common Food source: mostly insects including grasshoppers, caterpillars, beetles and grass and weed seeds Habitat: edges of grassy woodlands, gardens, parks Typical location: Los Alamos Chipping Sparrows are common over much of North America. These birds are relatively tame and gregarious, particularly in winter. They primarily forage on the ground or in low trees and shrubs, often in flocks. In many areas they will nest in trees in gardens and parks. The nest is a compact open cup made of grasses lined with finer materials like hair. Eggs are incubated for a week and a half to two weeks. The young leave the nest in a week to a week and half after hatching. There can be two broods per year. Info Photos Distribution Frequency |
 Photo: male by Bob Walker  Photo: female by Mouser Williams  Photo: raiding thistle feeder by Bob Walker | Pine Siskin, Pine LinnetPISI (Carduelis pinus, Spinus pinus)Family: Fringillidae (Finches) Size: 4.5 - 5 in (11 - 13 cm) Flies: Jan 01 - Dec 31 Morphology: males are grayish brown with brown striping and yellow edges on both wings and tail; females are more brownish with much less yellow Status: native; common Food source: mostly seeds and other vegetable matter; some insects; may eat flower parts and young shoots Habitat: mixed woodlands, thickets, brushy pastures Although Pine Siskins are patterned like sparrows, their overall behavior emphasizes that they are related to goldfinches. They actively forage for seeds in trees and shrubs and can spend all day at a thistle feeder. Pine Siskins are an irruptive species meaning that they can have an irregular migration pattern, i.e., large flocks of these birds are sometimes observed in unexpected areas. Pine Siskins may nest in loose colonies or isolated pairs. Cup-shaped nests are usually well hidden in a conifer. Incubation time is about 2 weeks with the young leaving the nest 2 weeks later. Info Photos Distribution Frequency Featured  |
 Photo: male, Eastern variant by Bob Walker  Photo: male, Western variant by Bob Walker  Photo: female by Bob Walker | Lesser Goldfinch, Arkansas GoldfinchLEGO (Carduelis psaltria, Spinus psaltria)Family: Fringillidae (Finches) Size: 3.5 - 4 in (9 - 10 cm) Flies: Jan 01 - Dec 31 Morphology: breeding males are bright yellow with black forehead, black wings with white markings, and white patches around the tail; Eastern variant has a black back, whereas the Western variant has an olive back; breeding females are dull yellow beneath and olive above; nonbreeding birds are drab brown with blackish wings and pale wing bars Status: native; locally common Food source: mostly eats seeds, in particular composites such as thistle and sunflower; will also feed on flowers, buds, and berries as well as some small insects Habitat: open brushy country, open woods, wooded streams, gardens The Lesser Goldfinch is a common summer visitor that is attracted to feeders, hanging around all day if there is thistle seed present. These birds remain in flocks, except when nesting, actively moving through trees, shrubs, and weeds in search of food. In the warmer parts of the Southwest breeding may extend from early spring to mid-autumn. Open cup nests are build on a vertical fork in a shrub or tree fairly high above the ground. Incubation time is about 12 days. However, the time it takes for the young to leave the nest is not known. There are usually two and sometime three broods per year. Info Photos Distribution Frequency |
 Photo: breeding male by Mouser Williams  Photo: breeding female by molanic  Photo: nonbreeding adult by Jerry Oldenettel | American Goldfinch, Black-winged Yellow BirdAMGO (Carduelis tristis, Spinus tristis)Family: Fringillidae (Finches) Size: 4.5 - 5 in (11 - 13 cm) Flies: Jan 01 - Dec 31 Morphology: breeding males are bright yellow with black forehead, black wings with white markings, and white rump; breeding females are dull yellow beneath and olive above; non breeding birds of both sexes are drab brown overall with black wings and dark beak Status: native; uncommon Food source: primarily small seeds but will feed on some insects in summer Habitat: brushy thickets, weedy grasslands The American Goldfinch can be seen year-round in the area. This is in contrast to the Lesser Goldfinch which is only a summer visitor. The American Goldfinch actively forages in weeds and shrubs and will climb up into plants such as thistle to reach the seeds. They can be seen at feeders. Nesting occurs in July and August. The cup-like nest is very compact, usually located high above the ground on a horizontal or upright fork of a tree. The young hatch about two weeks after the eggs are laid. Both parents feed the young until they leave the nest at about 11 to 17 days old. Info Photos Distribution Frequency |
 Photo: adult by J.N. Stuart  Photo: adult by David Yeamans  Photo: fledgling by Bob Walker | Juniper TitmouseJUTI (Baeolophus ridgwayi, Baeolophus griseus)Family: Paridae (Chickadees and Titmice) Size: 5.8 in (15 cm) Flies: Jan 01 - Dec 31 Morphology: both males and females have gray bodies, paler bellies, dark eyes, short bill, and pointed crest Status: native; common Food source: mainly insects and some spiders but also eats nuts and seeds Habitat: pinyon-juniper woodland, oak or pine woodlands Juniper Titmice will come to bird feeders but can often be seen hopping around on tree branches hunting for food. Sometimes they will even hang upside down while searching for insects. In addition, they are capable of opening nuts and acorns by pounding them with their bills while holding the nuts with their feet. During winter, titmice tend to congregate into roaming groups. Nests are usually located in a hole or some other type of natural cavity in a tree. However, Juniper Titmice will also use nest boxes. The nest is filled with grass, weeds, and other fibers and then lined with feathers or animal hair. Females are responsible for the incubation of the eggs which hatch in a little over 2 weeks. Both parents then fed the young until they leave the nest in another 2 to 3 weeks. Info Photos Distribution Frequency |
 Photo: adult by Hari Viswanathan  Photo: adult with nesting material by Mouser Williams | Mountain ChickadeeMOCH (Poecile gambeli, Parus gambeli)Family: Paridae (Chickadees and Titmice) Size: 5 - 5.8 in (13 - 15 cm) Flies: Jan 01 - Dec 31 Morphology: black cap and bib with white cheeks and grey sides; only chickadee with a white eye stripe Status: native; common Food source: mostly insects such as caterpillars and beetles but also seeds and berries Habitat: mountain forests, conifer forests Chickadees are small birds with large heads that often hang upside down to pluck small insects from conifer needles. These birds are fearless, inquisitive, and constantly foraging. They are attracted by oil sunflower seeds, suet, peanuts and peanut butter to feeders. They live at high altitudes in the summer but descend to lowlands in the winter. Females lay 7 to 9 white or lightly spotted eggs in a hair- or fur-lined natural cavity or woodpecker hole. Eggs hatch in about 14 days. Young fledge around 3 weeks of age. Info Photos Distribution Frequency Featured |
 Photo: male by Bob Walker  Photo: female by Bob Walker  Photo: female by Terry Foxx | Wilson's WarblerWIWA (Cardellina pusilla, Sylvania pusilla)Family: Parulidae (Wood Warblers) Size: 4.3 - 5 in (11 - 13 cm) Flies: Apr 15 - Jun 15 and Aug 01 - Oct 07 Morphology: males are bright yellow below and yellowish olive above with distinctive black eyes and black cap; females are similar but show variation in the amount of black on the top of the head from a few feathers to enough to form a small cap Status: native; locally common Food source: insects including bees, wasps, beetles, caterpillars, and aphids Habitat: moist thickets in woodlands and along streams; near scrub oaks Typical location: Ashley Pond The Wilson’s Warbler is a small, very active bird that often flips its long tail as it hops from branch to branch while foraging. It will also fly out to catch insects mid-air or hop along the ground probing among fallen leaves for food. These birds will visit water gardens. Open cup nests are usually located on the ground at the base of a shrub or sunken in the ground vegetation. Typically the eggs hatch in 10 to 13 days. The young leave the nest a week or two later. Cowbirds often lay eggs in the nests of these warblers. Info Photos Range Frequency |
 Photo: male by Jerry Oldenettel  Photo: female by Steven Mlodinow | MacGillivray's WarblerMGWA (Geothlypis tolmiei, Geothlypis macgillivrayi,)Family: Parulidae (Wood Warblers) Size: 4.8 - 5.5 in (12 - 14 cm) Flies: Apr 21 - Sep 21 Morphology: males have dark gray heads, throats, and upper breasts with olive-colored backs and wings, white crescents above and below the eyes, and yellow underparts; females have gray-olive heads, throats and upper breasts, olive upperparts, yellow underparts, and white arches around the eyes; immature are similar to the females but duller Status: native; common Food source: diet not well known but assumed to consist mostly of insects Habitat: coniferous forest edges, burns, brushy cuts Typical location: Los Alamos Reservoir The MacGillivray’s Warbler is a skulker, hiding out in dense brush, making it hard to spot. It is also a loner, even during migration season. These birds typically forage close to the ground, hopping along looking for insects. They may visit water gardens. Males sing to defend a nesting territory. Nests are well hidden, a few feet off of the ground in the fork of a shrub/tree or in tall weeds. The loosely constructed cup-shaped nests seem to be relatively immune to parasitization by cowbirds. Young leave the nest at a little over a week old. Info Photos Range Frequency |
 Photo: adult showing orange crown by Hari Viswanathan  Photo: adult showing hint of orange by Jerry Oldenettel  Photo: adult by Mouser Williams | Orange-crowned WarblerOCWA (Oreothlypis celata, Leiothlypis celata)Family: Parulidae (Wood Warblers) Size: 4.5 - 5.5 in (11 - 14 cm) Flies: Apr 07 - Oct 15 Morphology: yellow to olive-grey coloring overall with a thin white stripe over the eye, a black line through the eye, and a pale partial eyering; thin, sharp bill and square tail; the orange crown patch is inconspicuous and usually only seen when a bird raises its head feathers Status: native; common Food source: mostly insects with some nectar, sap, and berries; feed young on insect larvae Habitat: forest edges, burns, clearings, thickets, shrubby undergrowth The Orange-crowned Warbler is one of the plainer warblers and one of the most hardy. It usually flies solo but may join a loosely associated flock. These warblers tend to forage in low bushes and deciduous trees, flitting from branch-to-branch looking for insects or hopping around on the ground. In addition, they will pierce the base of flowers with their bill to sip nectar. They will also come to feeders for suet and peanut butter. Open cup nests are built low to or on the ground, protected by overhanging vegetation. The female lays 4 to 5 white eggs with reddish-brown spots. The eggs will hatch in a little less than two weeks. The young birds are fed by both parents and are ready to leave the nest about two weeks later. Info Photos Distribution Frequency |
 Photo: male by Hari Viswanathan  Photo: male by DP Lawrence  Photo: female by Mouser Williams | Virginia's WarblerVIWA (Oreothlypis virginiae, Vermivora virginiae)Family: Parulidae (Wood Warblers) Size: 4 - 4.3 in (10 - 11 cm) Flies: Mar 21 - Oct 07 Morphology: adults are gray overall with a white breast and white eyerings; males have bright yellow markings on the chest and under the rump along with a chestnut patch on the crown which is usually hidden; females are pale yellow on the chest and only sometimes have the chestnut patch on the crown Status: native; locally common Food source: not well know, presumably mostly insects Habitat: scrub oak, chaparral, pinyon-juniper, pine-oak woodlands The Virginia’s Warbler is named for the wife of the army surgeon who discovered the bird in New Mexico in 1858. These birds prefer brushy areas and can be seen hopping around shrubs during the spring, summer, and fall but will come to water gardens. They usually taken insects directly off of foliage or flowers but may catch some on the ground or in mid-air. Nests are very hard to find as they are placed on the ground and covered with dense brush. Although nests are rarely parasitized by cowbirds, young often fall prey to jays and snakes. Info Photos Range Frequency |
 Photo: male by Robin Agarwal  Photo: female by Mouser Williams | Grace's WarblerGRWA (Setophaga graciae, Dendroica graciae)Family: Parulidae (Wood Warblers) Size: 4.5 - 5 in (11 - 13 cm) Flies: Apr 01 - Sep 15 Morphology: small birds that have a gray back and white belly with black streaks down sides of chest and flanks, yellow chin, throat, and breast, a yellow eyestripe, and a yellow crescent under the eye; females are paler, more brown than males; immatures are similar to adults but duller with less streaks Status: native; locally common Food source: not well known but presumed to almost exclusively eat insects and their larvae Habitat: pine forests, mixed pine and oak Grace’s Warblers spend most of their time in the tops of tall pine trees, making it difficult to see them. They will search among the branches to find insects as well as to fly out and catch them mid-air. Details of the life history of these birds is not well-known. However, males have been observed defending a nesting territory by singing, and females seen to be responsible for nest building. Nests are an open cup-shape and well hidden, often placed in a cluster of pine needles high above the ground. There are normally 2 broods per year. Info Photos Range Frequency |
 Photo: male by Fyn Kynd  Photo: female by Selvi Viswanathan | Black-throated Gray WarblerBTYW (Setophaga nigrescens, Dendroica nifrescens)Family: Parulidae (Wood Warblers) Size: 4.5 - 5 in (11 - 13 cm) Flies: Apr 01 - Oct 01 Morphology: adults have have gray backs with white faces and underparts, a black mask, white wingbars, small yellow square in front of the eyes, and white spots on the tail; males have a black throats and black streaks on the sides; females have a black band on the breast but lack black on the throat; immatures like females Status: native; uncommon Food source: mostly insects with a preference for green caterpillars Habitat: shrubby openings in coniferous forest, dry scrub oak, pinyon-juniper, chaparral Typical location: Barranca Mesa Black-throated Gray Warblers are sometimes mistaken for the Black-and-white Warbler, but the latter are rarely seen in the area. These birds are short-distant migrants, traveling from breeding areas in the western United States to only as far south as Mexico. They typically forage by searching for insects among leaves but may also fly out to catch flying insects. In winter, they will forage in mixed flocks. Little is known about the Black-throated Gray Warbler’s nesting habits other than that the nest is of an open cup design made of plant and animal fibers. However, these birds have been observed defending their nests by pretending to have a broken wing in order to distract an intruder. Info Photos Distribution Frequency |
 Photo: male by Hari Viswanathan  Photo: male by Bob Walker  Photo: female by Bob Walker | Yellow WarblerYEWA (Setophaga petechia, Dendroica petechia)Family: Parulidae (Wood Warblers) Size: 4.5 - 5 in (11 - 13 cm) Flies: Apr 15 - Oct 01 Morphology: small, uniformly yellow birds with unremarkable large black eyes; males are brighter yellow than females and have reddish streaks on underparts Status: native; uncommon Food source: mostly insects with up to two-thirds of diet consisting of caterpillars of various kinds; also feeds on spiders and some berries Habitat: moist thickets, residential areas Yellow Warblers will visit water gardens during the spring and fall migration. They can also be seen in deciduous trees where they forage among the twigs and foliage, often hovering briefly to reach insects on the undersides of leaves. Males actively court females for several days. Females then build open, cup-shaped nests placed among the branches in a shrub or tree. These nests are easy to find and are often taken advantage of by cowbirds. Yellow Warblers will try to thwart the cowbirds by building a new nest over the old one and laying a new clutch of their own. These birds are persistent and there has been a report of six layers of nests build by one warbler. Info Photos Distribution Frequency |
 Photo: breeding male by Greg Lasley  Photo: female by Jerry Oldenettel  Photo: nest with egg by Mouser Williams | Blue-gray GnatcatcherBGGN (Polioptila caerulea)Family: Polioptilldae (Gnatcatchers) Size: 4.3 - 5 in (11 - 13 cm) Flies: Apr 07 - Sep 21 Morphology: thin, blue-gray birds with long legs and tails, thin bills, grayish-white underparts, a black tail with white edges, and a white eyering; breeding males have a black “V” on their foreheads; females and non-breeding males are much less blue and lack the facial “V” Status: native; common Food source: mostly insects and spiders Habitat: wooded areas,stream-side thickets, pinyon-juniper, chaparral The Blue-gray Gnatcatcher is the northernmost species of gnatcatcher and the only one that truly migrates. These birds spend the summer here, flitting about in the treetops, flicking their tails from side-to-side potentially to stir up hiding insects. They may also dart out to grab a insect in mid-air. They remove the wings of larger insects and then beat them on a branch before eating them. Males arrive first in breeding areas and sing to both defend a territory and attract a female. Nests, mostly made of plant materials, are camouflaged in spiderwebs and lichen. There may be 1 or 2 broods per year. Info Photos Distribution Frequency |
 Photo: male with crown slightly visible by Bob Walker  Photo: male with crown erect by Jerry Oldenettel  Photo: adult by Bob Walker | Ruby-crowned KingletRCKI (Regulus calendula, Corthylio calendula)Family: Regulidae (Kinglets) Size: 3.8 - 4.5 in (10 - 11 cm) Flies: Jan 01 - Dec 31 Morphology: adults are olive-green with a white eyeing, black and white wingbars, thin tail, and small beak; males have a red crown which is most visible when the bird raises its head feathers Status: native; common Food source: whatever insects are most readily available for the given season; also eats some berries, seeds, sap, and potentially nectar Habitat: deciduous and coniferous forests, thickets Ruby-crowned Kinglets live high in conifers during summer and, as such, are often hard to see. During the colder months, these tiny birds are potentially more visible as they flit about closer to the ground. They will most often perch on branches and twigs examining foliage for food. However, they can hover while foraging and may even fly out to catch an insect mid-air. During courtship, the male sings and raises its crown feathers to attract a female. The female builds a deep cup nest high up in a tree where it is protected by foliage from above. There are usually 7 to 8 eggs that are incubated for two weeks. The young usually leave the nest about 16 days later. Info Photos Distribution Frequency |
 Photo: adult by Bob Walker  Photo: adult by Jerry Oldenettel | Bewick's Wren, Mocking WrenBEWR (Thryomanes bewickii)Family: Troglodytidae (Wrens) Size: 5.5 in (14 cm) Flies: Jan 01 - Dec 31 Morphology: males and females look similar; medium-sized body with long, barred tail that is tipped with white and held upright; brown on top and grey on the bottom with a white stripe over the brow Status: native; common Food source: eats a variety of insects, including beetles, ants, caterpillars, and grasshoppers; also eats spiders, some berries, and some seeds Habitat: thickets, brush piles, hedgerows, open woodlands, scrubby areas Bewick’s Wrens are most often seen climbing and hopping along tree branches or exploring in leaf litter. They are known for waving their tails about and making harsh noises if disturbed. These birds nest in any kind of cavity, either natural or manmade, including nest boxes. Males build “dummy” incomplete nests to attract the females. The female then choses a site and competes the nest by lining it with various materials. Eggs hatch is about 2 weeks with the young leaving the nest around 2 weeks later. Info Photos Range Frequency |
 Photo: adult by Marion L. Stelts  Photo: adult by Sally King, NPS | House WrenHOWR (Troglodytes aedon)Family: Troglodytidae (Wrens) Size: 4.5 - 5.3 in (11 - 13 cm) Flies: Mar 21 - Oct 01 Morphology: both sexes are brown overall with dark bars on the wings and tail and a faint eyebrow Status: native; common Food source: wide variety of insects and spiders Habitat: residential areas, city parks, farmlands, woodland edges Like other wrens, the House Wren is known for holding its tail cocked above the line of the body. These birds are very active and inquisitive and can often be seen fussing in brush piles and singing in the trees nears gardens and parks. They will forage both high up in trees as well as on the ground. House Wrens are extremely territorial and have been known to destroy the eggs of other species by pecking a hole in them. A male will build several incomplete nests of twigs and plant fibers. His mate will then choose the final nesting spot. House Wrens will use nesting boxes as will and a variety of different enclosed spaces such as flowerpots or drainpipes as nesting sites. Males may have more than one mate and females may leave one male to care for the young while she moves on to mate with another male. Info Photos Distribution Frequency |
 Photo: adult by Daniel Sheron  Photo: adult by Jerry Oldenettel | Hammond's FlycatcherHAFL (Empidonax hammondii)Family: Tyrannidae (Tyrant Flycatchers) Size: 5 - 5.5 in (13 - 14 cm) Flies: Apr 21 - Sep 01 Morphology: adults are primarily gray overall with prominent white eyering and wingbars; immatures are similar to the adults but with broader, more buff wingbarsadults are primarily gray overall with prominent white eyering and wingbars; immatures are similar to the adults but with broader, more buff wingbars Status: native; locally common Food source: feeds only on insects Habitat: mature coniferous forests at high altitudes Hammond’s Flycatchers are very similar to Dusky Flycatchers but seem to prefer cooler habitats and nesting sites higher in the mountains and farther north. Hammond’s Flycatchers constantly move while perched, flicking wings and cocking their tails at same time. They carefully watch from a perch, and then fly out to catch their prey or pick it directly off of the surface of foliage or branches. A male will vigorously defend a territory during breeding season and may actually fight other males. Nests are usually located on a horizontal branch and consist of a cup made of stems, bark, lichens and other materials like feathers and spiderwebs. Young fledge at about 2 1/2 weeks old but tend to stay with their parents for another week or two. Info Photos Range Frequency |
 Photo: adult by Marion L. Stelts  Photo: adult by Bob Walker | Gray Flycatcher, Wright's FlycatcherGRFL (Empidonax wrightii, Empidonax canescens)Family: Tyrannidae (Tyrant Flycatchers) Size: 5.5 in (14 cm) Flies: Apr 01 - Sep 21 Morphology: adults have gray back, white belly, thin eyering. pale wingbars, and pale mark in front of the eye; immature similar to adult but with brownish upperparts, buff underparts, and buff wingbars Status: native; locally common Food source: only insects Habitat: sagebrush, pinyon-juniper woodlands Gray Flycatchers, which are very similar to Dusky Flycatchers, seldom sit still for long. They slowly lower and raise their tails when perched. These birds watch for insects from an exposed perch and then fly out to catch them, either on the ground or in mid-air. Gray Flycatchers winter farther north than other species in the same genus. They can commonly be seen in southern Arizona during the winter months. They typically build nests in inconspicuous areas in the crook of a bush or tree and sometimes nest in a loose colonies. The young fledge at a little over 2 weeks of age. Info Photos Distribution Frequency |
 Photo: adult by Hari Viswanathan  Photo: adult near nest by Bob Walker | Warbling VireoWAVI (Vireo gilvus)Family: Vireonidae (Vireos) Size: 5 - 6 in (13 - 15 cm) Flies: Apr 07 - Sep 21 Morphology: western variation - both sexes are olive-gray to brownish on the top and whitish below with a yellow wash on the sides, a brown line through the eye, and a pale line over the eye Status: native; common Food source: mostly insects with some berries Habitat: deciduous woodlands especially near streams Warbling Vireo have the largest range in North America of any member of the Vireonidae family. They are commonly seen perched high up. These birds usually forage in deciduous trees or shrubs by hopping along twigs in searching for insects. They can also hover briefly and pick insects off the undersides of leaves. During courtship, males strut around near a potential nesting site with wings and tail spread out. Nests are deep, compact cups made of bark, grass, and other plant fibers. Nests of Warbling Vireos are often parasitized by Cowbirds. Info Photos Distribution Frequency |
 Photo: adult by Bob Walker  Photo: adult by J.N. Stuart  Photo: immature by Paul Tavares |  Cedar WaxwingCEDW (Bombycilla cedrorum, Ampelis cedrorum)Family: Bombycillidae (Waxwings) Size: 6.5 - 8 in (17 - 20 cm) Flies: Jan 01 - Dec 31 Morphology: adults of both sexes have a crest (often flopped over) and are brown on the head and back, yellow on the belly, and gray on the wings and tail; in addition, the face has a narrow black mask, the tail a bright yellow tip, and the wings waxy red tips which are often hidden; immatures are fairly similar to the adults but with a mottled breast Status: native; uncommon Food source: mostly berries and insects Habitat: open woodlands ,orchards,residential areas Cedar Waxwings are seen in the area during the non-breeding season when they typically forage in flocks. They will sit in fruit trees devouring berries or hovering briefly nearby plucking fruit off of the trees. They will also take insects off of the foliage and may catch others in mid-air. Waxwings will come to a bird bath or other water source. Nesting usually does not occur until mid-summer and may take place in small colonies. Nests have a loosely build, open-cup structure. Under normal conditions, there are two broods per year. Info Photos Distribution Frequency |
 Photo: male by Hari Viswanathan  Photo: non-breeding male by Jerry Oldenettel  Photo: female by Mouser Williams | Blue GrosbeakBLGR (Passerina caerulea, Guiraca caerulea)Family: Cardinalidae (Cardinals, Grosbecks, and Allies) Size: 6 - 7.5 in (15 - 19 cm) Flies: May 01 - Sep 15 Morphology: breeding males are a rich blue color overall with a black face mask, chestnut wingbars, a black and silver beak, and two wingbars (upper one chestnut and lower one gray); nonbreeding males are patchy blue and brown with cinnamon wingbars; females are cinnamon-brown overall (darker on the head and paler underneath) with a bluish tail, and two wingbars; immatures tend to be chestnut brown with chestnut wingbars Status: native; locally common Food source: eats many different kinds of insects and spiders along with a variety of seeds Habitat: brushy moist pastures, thickets Typical location: Rio Grande, White Rock Canyon Blue Grosbeaks can be seen during spring and fall migration, though they can be hard to spot as they will often hide in thickets. They have a rich warbling song and a habit of twitching its tail sideways. These birds mostly forage on the ground or in low vegetation. Except when nesting, they usually forage in flocks. Males sing to defend the nesting territory while females build a compact open cup nest of twigs, weeds, etc. They will often add unusual materials like snakeskin which is thought to thwart predators. Cowbirds often lay eggs in the nests of grosbeaks. Info Photos Distribution Frequency |
 Photo: male by Bob Walker  Photo: female or immature male by Mouser Williams | Black-headed GrosbeakBHGR (Pheucticus melanocephalus, Habia melanocephala)Family: Cardinalidae (Cardinals, Grosbecks, and Allies) Size: 7.5 in (19 cm) Flies: Apr 15 - Oct 01 Morphology: chunky-looking birds with large heads, gray bills, and thick necks; males are bright cinnamon with a black head and black-and-white_wings; males do not develop their showy plumage until their second breeding season; females and immature males are brown above with an orange or buff breast and often streaks on the sides of the breast Status: native; common Food source: variety of insect, seeds, and berries including those from mistletoe and poison oak; one of the few birds that can eat noxious monarch butterflies Habitat: open deciduous woodlands near water Black-headed Grosbeaks are common summer visitors in the local area. They mostly forage in shrubs and trees, looking for food among the foliage. They sometimes forage on the ground in low growth and are attracted to sunflower seed in feeders. Males will fly with wings and tail fully spread while singing to attract females. Nests are of a loosely constructed open cup design and so thin that eggs can be seen through the bottom. It is postulated that this is to allow for ventilation. Info Photos Distribution Frequency |
 Photo: male by Corry Clinton  Photo: female by Corry Clinton  Photo: immature by Selvi Viswanathan | Hepatic Tanager, Red Tanager, Liver-colored TanagerHETA (Piranga flava)Family: Cardinalidae (Cardinals, Grosbecks, and Allies) Size: 7 - 8 in (18 - 20 cm) Flies: Apr 15 - Oct 01 Morphology: males are dull liver-red to orange-red with gray on back and flanks; females are olive-yellow to orange-yellow with gray flanks; immatures similar to females Status: native; locally common Food source: largely feeds on insects including caterpillars and beetles but also eats berries and small fruits Habitat: open forest areas with pines and oaks The Hepatic Tanager has similar habits to the Western Tanager. It arrives in the area in the spring and stays through summer. Pairs can be seen hopping along branches and looking under foliage of tall pines while foraging for insects. There are a few dozen breeding pairs in the county. Nests are made of grasses and weeds in a shallow open cup shape that is placed on a horizontal branch away from the trunk of a tall tree. Eggs are bluish-green with brown spots. Neither the incubation time nor age at which the young fledge is known. Info Photos Distribution Frequency |
 Photo: breeding male by Bob Walker  Photo: non-breeding male by Bob Walker  Photo: female by Bob Walker | Western TanagerWETA (Piranga ludoviciana)Family: Cardinalidae (Cardinals, Grosbecks, and Allies) Size: 6 - 7.5 in (15 - 19 cm) Flies: Apr 01 - Oct 07 Morphology: breeding males are yellow with black wings and a flaming orange-red head; non-breeding males are a duller yellow with limited red on the head; females are mostly yellow-green with gray contrasts Status: native; common Food source: mostly insects, some fruit, and berries Habitat: open coniferous forests The Western Tanager is a migratory bird spending its winters in Mexico and Central America and its summers in the western US and Canada. These birds may migrate alone or in groups of up to a few dozen. They primarily forage from tree tops, either gleaning insects by plucking them from the foliage or hawking which consists of flying out and catching them mid-air. In addition, they will eat fruit from feeders. Western Tanagers nest in high mountains and coniferous forests. The female builds a open cup-shaped nest and lays 3 to 5 bluish eggs. The young hatch in about 2 weeks and usually leave the nest 2 weeks later. Western Tanager nests may be parasitized by Brown-headed Cowbirds which reduces the number of tanager young that fledges. Info Photos Distribution Frequency |
 Photo: adult by Bob Walker  Photo: adult by J.N.Stuart | Rufous-crowned Sparrow, Boucard's Summer FinchRCSP (Aimophila ruficeps)Family: Emberizidae (New World Sparrows and Allies) Size: 5 - 6 in (13 - 15 cm) Flies: Jan 01 - Dec 31 Morphology: large, gray sparrow with streaked back, reddish-brown crown, white eyering, and white stripes edged in black on the throat Status: native; uncommon Food source: varies with the season with insects in summer, seeds in winter Habitat: open oak woodlands, dry uplands Rufous-crowned Sparrows usually live in dense cover, skulking around on rocky, brushy hillsides and in canyons. However, they are not particularly shy and can be observed closely if left undisturbed. Pairs or family groups tend to forage together. They hop along the ground or feed in low bushes. Nests are usually well hidden on the ground. The young leave the nest before they are able to fly and may stay with their parents for up to several months after that. Info Photos Distribution Frequency |
 Photo: Oregon variant by Jonathan Creel  Photo: grey-headed variant by Mouser Williams  Photo: pink-sided variant by Mouser Williams | Dark-eyed JuncoDEJU (Junco hyemalis)Family: Emberizidae (New World Sparrows and Allies) Size: 5 - 6.3 in (13 - 16 cm) Flies: Jan 01 - Dec 31 Morphology: both sexes are generally dark gray or brown with a pink bill and white outer tail feathers; there is a large range of geographical variation in color with the Oregon, white-winged, pink-sided, and grey-headed variations found in the local area Status: native; common Food source: mostly feeds on seeds and grasses with occasional small fruits and insects; young primarily fed insects Habitat: open forests, mixed woods, fields, parks, gardens Dark-Eye Juncos are lively territorial birds that are commonly called “snowbirds” because they are a herald of winter. They are often seen feeding on snow-covered berry bushes and grasses. They travel in flocks with one leader. Dark-eyed Juncos mostly forage on the ground, often under a feeding tray. They particularly enjoy gardens that have gone to seed with water nearby. Open cup-shaped nests are usually found on the ground hidden under things like overhanging grass or exposed roots. These birds may have multiple broods per year with incubation time being about 2 weeks. The young usually leave the nest about 2 weeks after hatching. Info Photos Distribution Frequency Featured |
 Photo: adult by Bob Walker  Photo: adult by David Yeamans  Photo: adult by Mouser Williams | Lincoln's Sparrow, Lincoln's FinchLISP (Melospiza lincolnii)Family: Emberizidae (New World Sparrows and Allies) Size: 5 - 6 in (13 - 15 cm) Flies: Jan 01 - Dec 31 Morphology: both sexes have streaky brown/gray wings and tail with rusty edges, buff underparts with black streaking, white belly, buffy mustache stripe bordered by thin brown lines, dark eyering, and brown and black stripped crown with a central gray stripe; note: the head may look crested when the crown feathers are raised Status: native; locally common Food source: primarily seeds with some insects; young fed entirely on insects Habitat: brushy bogs, thickets Lincoln’s Sparrows which resemble Song Sparrows are normally secretive. They often skulk in dense, low cover and can be found hiding in bushes by their distinctive call. These birds are solitary, rarely seen as part of a flock. They forage by hopping on the ground, most often under dense bushes or grasses. They will come to well-watered yards. Males defend their nesting territory by singing. Open cup nests of grasses are build on the ground by the females. They nests are well hidden by dense greenery. Info Photos Range Frequency |
 Photo: adult by Bob Walker  Photo: adult by Mouser Williams | Song SparrowSOSP (Melospiza melodia, Melospiza cinerea)Family: Emberizidae (New World Sparrows and Allies) Size: 5 - 7 in (13 - 18 cm) Flies: Jan 01 - Dec 31 Morphology: both sexes have thick, brown streaks on a white chest and flanks along with reddish-brown and gray streaks on the head; birds in the Southwest are paler than in other parts of the country Status: native; uncommon Food source: eats a variety of insects and spiders in summer and mainly seeds in winter Habitat: edges of forests, clearings, thickets open grassy marshes, gardens Typical location: White Rock Wastewater Treatment Plant The Song Sparrow is one of the most widespread and variable of North American birds. Song Sparrows live up to their name by singing constantly throughout the spring and summer. They are usually conspicuous by their sheer numbers. These birds usually forage on the ground but will readily come to feeders, often as part of a mixed flock with other sparrows. Males will defend small nesting territories. Open-cup nests may be located on the ground under cover or low in a tree. Info Photos Distribution Frequency |
 Photo: adult by Hari Viswanathan  Photo: adult by Bob Walker  Photo: immature by Alex Bairstow | Green-tailed TowheeGTTO (Pipilo chlorurus, Chlorura chlorura)Family: Emberizidae (New World Sparrows and Allies) Size: 6.3 - 7 in (16 - 18 cm) Flies: Jan 01 - Nov 01 Morphology: stocky, grayish adults with rufous crown, white throat, dark mustache, and olive-yellow wings, back, and tail; immatures lack the rufous crown and facial markings Status: native; locally common Food source: primarily eats seeds from weeds and grasses and insects such as beetles and crickets; occasionally eats berries Habitat: sagebrush, chaparral, alpine meadow thickets Green-tailed Towhees are usually seen in the local area during the summer. They have a brighter orange crest than the more common Canyon Towhee. They are the smallest towhees and the only ones that are entirely migratory. Like other towhees, the Green-tails search for food by scratching in the leaf-litter with both feet. They spend most of their time in low, bushy areas. However, they will come to forage below a feeding tray. Nests are of a deep, cup design and located on the ground or close to it in a low shrub. Info Photos Distribution Frequency |
 Photo: male by Gowri Srinivasan  Photo: female by ADJ82  Photo: immature by Bob Walker | Spotted TowheeSPTO (Pipilo maculatus)Family: Emberizidae (New World Sparrows and Allies) Size: 7 - 8.5 in (18 - 22 cm) Flies: Jan 01 - Dec 31 Morphology: adult males have white breast and rufous sides along with black head, throat, tail, and back/wings with white spots; adult females are the same but with dark brown where the males are black; immatures are streaked brown overall Status: native; common Food source: eats insects, seeds, and berries with diet varying with season Habitat: forest edges, thickets, woodlands, parks Once thought to be a variant of the Rufous-sided Towhee, the Spotted Towhee is now considered to be a separate species. Towhees are ground feeders, preferring to be near a thicket or in the underbrush. They are often first noticed because of the sound of their loud scratching while rummaging in leaf-litter for insects or for seeds at platform feeder. Their distinctive movements have been described as the “Towhee Shuffle”. Nests are typically located on the ground under a shrub or in a low bush and are of an open-cup design. Incubation time is about 2 weeks. The young leave the nest 9 to 11 days later. There are usually one to two broods per year and on rare occasions three. Info Photos Distribution Frequency Featured |
 Photo: male by Hari Viswanathan  Photo: female by Bob Walker  Photo: mixed flock by bob Walker | Evening GrosbeakEVGR (Coccothraustes vespertina, Hesperiphona vespertina)Family: Fringillidae (Cardinals, Grosbecks, and Allies) Size: 7.5 - 8.5 in (19 - 22 cm) Flies: Jan 01 - Dec 31 Morphology: heavyset birds with thick, conical bills; males are yellow and black and have a white patch on the wings, dark heads, bright-yellow stripe over eye, and pale ivory to greenish bill; females are primarily gray and have black and white wings, a greenish tinge to neck and flanks, and a greenish-yellow bill; immatures like females Status: native; locally common Food source: mostly seeds, some berries, buds and sap, occasional insects Habitat: coniferous forests, deciduous woodlands, suburban areas The Evening Grosbeak is a western bird that has expanded its range as far east as New England. Locally, they may be common one year and uncommon the next. These birds are very fond of sunflower seeds which they can easily crack with their large bills. Flocks will readily visit bird feeders to consume large amount of the seeds. They have been observed to eat almost 100 sunflower seeds in five minutes. Evening Grosbeaks will also consume a surprising quantity of raw salt. During mating season, the birds leave the flock to pair up. Males will perform a courtship dance. The nest, built by the female, consists of a loosely made cup of twigs and is usually located on branch well out from the trunk. Info Photos Distribution Frequency |
 Photo: male by Hari Viswanathan  Photo: female by Mouser Williams | Cassin's FinchCAFI (Haemorhous cassinii, Carpodacus cassinii)Family: Fringillidae (Finches) Size: 6 - 6.5 in (15 - 17 cm) Flies: Jan 01 - Dec 31 Morphology: both sexes have thin white eye rings, notched tails, and long wings; males have a deep red crown and a rosy pink wash over the rest of the body; females are brown-and-white with dark streaks on the chest and underparts; immatures look like the females Status: native; locally common Food source: mostly eats vegetable matter (seeds, buds, berries, and fruits); occasionally eats insects in summer Habitat: open conifer stands Cassin’s Finches are common in the local area in spring and fall but uncommon in summer. These birds often forage in small roving flocks, feeding high up in trees, in weedy growth on the ground, or at bird feeders. Cassin’s Finches crave salt and may be seen visiting mineral deposits on the ground. Males retain their female-like plumage during their first breeding season. However, they will sing, giving the impression that both sexes sing. The complicated song of a male often includes imitations of other birds. Cassin’s Finches may nest in small colonies using open-cup nests located fairly high up in the trees. The number of breeding pairs in an area can vary from year-to-year. Info Photos Range Frequency |
 Photo: male by Mouser Williams  Photo: female  Photo: nest by J.N. Stuart | House FinchHOFI (Haemorhous mexicanus, Carpodacus mexicanus)Family: Fringillidae (Finches) Size: 5 - 6 in (13 - 15 cm) Flies: Jan 01 - Dec 31 Status: native; common Habitat: chaparral, deserts, orchards House Finches are native to the Southwest but were released in New York during the 1940s and have subsequently expanded in such a way as to be found coast-to-coast. These finches will forage on the ground or while perching up in a shrub or tree. They typically forage in flocks except when nesting. They will visit feeders in large numbers. However, some consider them to be pests since they are susceptible to infections that can be spread to other feeder visitors. Males may sing anytime during the year but females only sing during spring. During breeding season, males will perform a flight-song display. Open cup nests can be found in a variety of locations including in trees, holes in man-made structures, hanging planters, and old nests of other birds. House Finches can have up to three broods per year. Info Photos Distribution Frequency Featured |
 Photo: male by Mouser Williams  Photo: female by Mouser Williams  Photo: immature male by Bob Walker | Red-winged BlackbirdRWBL (Agelaius phoeniceus)Family: Icteridae (Blackbirds and Orioles) Size: 7 - 9.5 in (18 - 24 cm) Flies: Jan 01 - Dec 31 Morphology: males are glossy black overall except for a red shoulder patch with a yellow border; females are brown with dark streaks and a buff-colored throat; immature males are black with buff or orange on the edges of their feathers and may show the beginning of shoulder patches Status: native; locally common Food source: mostly insects and seeds, some berries Habitat: marshes, wet meadows, pastures Typical location: Big Rock Loop, The Stables Red-winged Blackbirds are seen in the area during spring, summer, and fall. Outside of breeding season, they can be found foraging in small flocks, often with other large birds. In the southern part of the state, they congregate in much larger groups. Red-winged Blackbirds usually forage while walking along on the ground, though sometimes they will go up shrubs or trees. Males will defend their territory and attract a mate by perching on a high stalk, fluffing their feathers, and singing. Nests are a bulky open cups that are placed among dense bushes or grasses. The eggs are incubated for 10 to 12 days. Young leave the nest about 2 weeks after hatching. Info Photos Distribution Frequency |
 Photo: male by Carey B  Photo: female by Steve Waller  Photo: egg on right in junco nest by Mouser Williams | Brown-headed CowbirdBHCO (Molothrus ater)Family: Icteridae (Blackbirds and Orioles) Size: 6 - 8 in (15 - 20 cm) Flies: Apr 01 - Oct 01 Morphology: small blackbirds with short tails, thick heads, and pointed bills; males are glossy black all over with the exception of a rich brown colored head; females are various shades of brown with streaking on their bellies; immatures look similar to the females Status: native; locally common Food source: mostly seeds, insects, spiders, and millipedes; seeds from grasses, weeds, and grains make up 50% of the diet in summer and 90% in winter Habitat: agricultural land, fields, woodland edges, suburban areas Typical location: The Stables Brown-headed Cowbirds forage by walking along on the ground looking for food. They are thought to have originally followed bison in order to catch the insects kicked up from the grass by the animals. Today they often do the same thing by walking behind herds of cattle. Brown-headed Cowbirds are brood parasites, i.e., they lay their eggs in the nests of other songbirds, leaving the eggs to be incubated and raised by the host birds. Females may lay up to 40 eggs in a season, at a rate of one per day for several weeks. Cowbird eggs typically hatch before those of the host, so that they have a competitive advantage over the host’s own young. Cowbird young develop rapidly and usually leave the nest by about 10 days of age. Info Photos Distribution Frequency |
 Photo: Audubon male by J.N. Stuart  Photo: Audubon female by Mouser Williams  Photo: hybrid male by Mouser Williams | Yellow-rumped Warbler, Audubon's Warbler, Myrtle WarblerYRWA (Setophaga coronata)Family: Parulidae (Wood Warblers) Size: 5 - 6 in (13 - 15 cm) Flies: Apr 21 - Nov 21 Morphology: in summer both sexes are gray with white on the wings and yellow on the sides and rump, and in winter they are paler with more brown; overall, females are paler and more brown than males ; the “Myrtle” subspecies is characterized by a white throat and dark facial mask; the “Audubon” subspecies is characterized by a yellow throat and more white on the wings; hybrids can show traits of bot Status: native; common Food source: insects, spiders, and berries Habitat: coniferous forests, mixed forests There are two subspecies of Yellow-rumped Warbler: Myrtle, primarily seen in the east, and the Audubon, dominant in the west. These two subspecies can interbreed where their ranges overlap, including the Canadian Rockies. The prevailing subspecies in the local area is the Audubon with the occasional hybrid observed. These birds are the most common warblers in North America and are capable of wintering farther north than other warbler species. They sing from the high canopy of the forest with a chirp or "contact call" that keeps the flock together. Yellow-rumped Warblers have many different foraging strategies: searching among twigs and leaves, flying out to catch prey, hopping along the ground, and clinging to tree trunks and branches. They tend to forage in flocks in winter. They normally have 2 broods per year. Nests are usually found on a branch away from the trunk of a tree. Info Photos Distribution Frequency |
 Photo: adult by Bob Walker  Photo: adult by ADJ82  Photo: immature by Sally King, NPS | Lark Sparrow, Lark FinchLASP (Chondestes grammacus)Family: Passerellidae (New World Sparrows and Allies) Size: 5.5 - 6.5 in (14 - 17 cm) Flies: Apr 07 - Oct 01 Morphology: adults are pale with reddish crown and cheek patch, pale stripe over eye, black mustache stripe, and black spot in the center of the breast; immatures are similar to the adults but lack the reddish coloration in the crown and check Status: native; uncommon Food source: feed heavily on seeds, especially in winter and on insects in summer Habitat: open country Lark Sparrows prefer to forage on relatively open ground, making them easy to spot. They typically forage in small flocks and, unlike other songbirds, they walk rather than hop along the ground. When moving from one location to another, Lark Sparrows tend to fly higher than most other sparrows and can be heard making sharp calls as they pass overhead. While both sexes participate in choosing a nesting site, the female does all the nest building. However, she may choose to use an old mockingbird or thrasher nest instead of building a new one. The young mature quickly and leave the nest about 10 days after hatching. Info Photos Distribution Frequency |
 Photo: adult by Marion Stelts  Photo: adult by J.N. Stuart | Vesper Sparrow, Bay-winged BuntingVESP (Pooecetes gramineus)Family: Passerellidae (New World Sparrows and Allies) Size: 5 - 6.5 in (13 - 17 cm) Flies: Mar 07 - Oct 21 Morphology: large, chunky sparrows that are brown overall with distinctive streaks; they have a thin white eyering, white outer tail feather, a pale check patch, and a chestnut patch on the should that is often hard to see Status: native; locally common Food source: feds on a wide variety of insects and seeds Habitat: fields, pastures, farms Typical location: The Stables Vesper Sparrows are usually found on open ground but may mount an exposed perch to sing. They received their common name from naturalist John Burroughs who thought that their song sounded sweeter in the evening. These birds feed almost entirely on the ground, many times on bare soil. They can also often be seen taking dust-bathes in bare fields or dirt roads. Vesper Sparrows are quick to take advantage of changes in habitat, often being the first to move into abandoned cultivated areas that are returning to forest. Nesting sites are on the ground at the base of some tall vegetation or in a slight depression. Nestlings leave the nest 1 to 2 weeks after hatching. There may be up to 3 broods in a year. Info Photos Distribution Frequency |
 Photo: male by Lonny Holmes  Photo: non-breeding male by molanic  Photo: female by Alison Sheehey | House Sparrow, English SparrowHOSP (Passer domesticus)Family: Passeridae (Old World Sparrows and Allies) Size: 5 - 6.5 in (13 - 17 cm) Flies: Jan 01 - Dec 31 Morphology: breeding males are brightly colored with gray crowns, white cheeks, black bibs, rusty necks, and black beaks; non-breeding males have more subdued colors including that on the neck — they also have a smaller black bib and a yellow rather than black beak; females are buffy-brown overall with gray-brown underparts and back stripes of buff, black, and brown Status: introduced; common Food source: mostly weed, grass, and waste seeds; some insects and scavenged food crumbs left by humans Habitat: cities, towns, agricultural areas House Sparrows are not related to New World sparrows. Rather they are native to Eurasia and northern Africa.They were introduced into Brooklyn, NY in 1851 and rapidly spread across all of North America except the far north. These birds are aggressive and can survive in areas inhospitable to other birds such as in cities, where they have greatly benefited from their association with humans. House Sparrows primarily forage by hopping on the ground, looking for seeds and other scraps. They will even take smashed insects off of parked cars and come to feeders. Nests are made from a variety of materials and are usually located in a cavity either natural or man-made. Young leave the nest 2 weeks after hatching. There are typically 2 to 3 broods per year. Info Photos Distribution Frequency |
 Photo: breeding adult by Bob Walker  Photo: nonbreeding adult by Jerry Oldenettel  Photo: immature by Chris Mallory | European Starling, Common StarlingEUST (Sturnus vulgaris)Family: Sturnidae (Starlings and Mynas) Size: 7.5 - 8.2 in (19 - 21 cm) Flies: Jan 01 - Dec 31 Morphology: adults are glossy black overall with a purplish-green iridescence; breeding individuals have pale white spots on the back and a yellow bill, whereas nonbreeding birds have bright white spots all over and generally a black bill; immatures are dull grayish brown with a black bill Status: introduced; locally common Food source: quite varied diet, consisting of mostly insects, berries, and seeds with occasional worms and other invertebrates Habitat: cities,suburban areas,farmlands,ranches Typical location: The Stables European Starlings were introduced to North American in 1890 and have spread to most of the continent. Their common name comes from that fact that in flight they look like to a small, four-pointed star. European Starlings are sociable birds, particularly outside of breeding season when they form large flocks. They mostly forage on the ground in open areas walking around with a characteristic swagger. These birds will nest in any kind of cavity whether natural or man-made. The nest, itself, is a mass of twigs, grass, leaves, etc. Starlings have two broods per year. The eggs hatch in about a week and half and the young leave the nest approximately 3 weeks later. Info Photos Distribution Frequency |
 Photo: adult by Hari Viswanathan  Photo: adult by Stephen Shankland  Photo: adult by Bob Walker | Canyon Wren, Dotted WrenCANW (Catherpes mexicanus)Family: Troglodytidae (Wrens) Size: 5.5 - 6 in (14 - 15 cm) Flies: Jan 01 - Dec 31 Morphology: both sexes have brown body, white throat, bright rusty, barred tail, and long, thin bill curved downward; immatures are similar to adult but with less markings Status: native; locally common Food source: variety of insects including termites, ants, beetles, etc. and some spiders Habitat: rocky canyons, cliffs, old stone buildings Typical location: Falls Trail, White Rock Canyon Canyon Wrens are hyperactive, most often seen scurrying around the rocks. Their long bills and flat heads enable them to reach deep into crevices to find food. In addition to foraging under rocks and in crevices, these birds will explore areas with very dense undergrowth for prey. Canyon Wrens do not appear to drink water but get what they need from insects. Males defend the nesting area by singing. Nests, usually in a hole or rock crevice, are filled with coarse items topped with a cup made of softer materials. Young leave the nest at about 15 days of age, but will remain with their parens for several more weeks. Info Photos Distribution Frequency |
 Photo: adult by Mouser Wlliams  Photo: adult by Bob Walker  Photo: adults by ADJ82 | Rock WrenROWR (Salpinctes obsoletus)Family: Troglodytidae (Wrens) Size: 5 - 6.5 in (13 - 17 cm) Flies: Jan 01 - Dec 31 Morphology: small, pale gray and brown birds with faintly striped throats, long, barred tails, and long, thin bills Status: native; uncommon Food source: mostly insects and spiders Habitat: rock-strewn slopes, canyons cliffs Rock Wrens usually forage on the ground, often probing in crevices among rocks. They are not known to drink water but get what moisture they need from their food. These birds can often be seen moving about and bouncing up and down on their short legs. Male Rock Wrens are incredible singers with a repertoire of a 100 or more songs learned from other birds. Nest sites are in sheltered areas such as under a rock ledge or a crevice in a building. There is often a walkway of small pebbles, bones, or other debris leading up to the nest cavity. The function of this “patio” is unknown. Info Photos Distribution Frequency |
 Photo: adult by Bob Walker  Photo: adult by Mouser Williams  Photo: immature by nsharp | Hermit Thrush, Swamp AngelHETH (Catharus guttatus, Hylocichla aonalaschkae)Family: Turdidae (Thrushes) Size: 6.5 - 7.5 in (17 - 19 cm) Flies: Jan 01 - Dec 31 Morphology: adults are brown on the head and back with pale underparts, distinctive spots on the throat and breast, a reddish tail, and a thin white eyering; immatures are gray-brown above with spotting on back and wings Status: native; locally common Food source: feeds on insects, spiders, worms, and berries Habitat: mixed forests, deciduous woodlands, thickets Hermit Thrush are seen primarily during the spring and fall migration, but may also spend the summer in the area. These birds tend to migrate earlier in spring and later in fall than other thrushes. If surprised, a Hermit Thrush may stare at the onlooker while flicking its wings and moving its tail up and down. These thrush are attracted to water gardens where they hop around the shrubs nearby. They pick up food from the ground or off of the foliage in shrubs and trees. Nests in the west tend to be up in a conifer and made of a variety of plant materials including pine needles. Info Photos Distribution Frequency |
 Photo: male by Bob Walker  Photo: male by Mouser Williams  Photo: male and female by J.N. Stuart | Mountain BluebirdMOBL (Sialia currucoides)Family: Turdidae (Thrushes) Size: 7 in (18 cm) Flies: Jan 01 - Dec 31 Morphology: males are sky-blue on top and paler underneath with dark blue on wings and tail; females are mostly gray brown with pale blue in the wings and tail; immatures look like spotted females Status: native; locally common Food source: mostly feeds on insects, such as beetles, grasshoppers, caterpillars, etc.; also eats berries, including mistletoe and juniper Habitat: high mountain meadows, plains, grassy areas Typical location: Bandelier Entrance Road, The Stables, Valle Grande Mountain Bluebirds often forage by hovering a few feet over an open field and then dropping to the ground to pick up insects. Alternatively, they may perch on a low branch and dart out to catch prey. Nests consist of a loose cup built in a cavity or hallow. Mountain Bluebirds will use nesting boxes which provide a great opportunity to watch these birds raise their young. Info Photos Distribution Frequency |
 Photo: male by Hari Viswanathan  Photo: female by Jerry Oldenettel  Photo: immature by Patty Teague | Western BluebirdWEBL (Sialia mexicana)Family: Turdidae (Thrushes) Size: 6 - 7 in (15 - 18 cm) Flies: Jan 01 - Dec 31 Morphology: stocky birds with short tails; males are blue above with a rusty orange vest on the breast and upper back, blue throat, and white belly; females are gray with pale orange wash on the breast and bluish tint to the wings and tail, and white belly Status: native; common Food source: mostly insects (grasshoppers, caterpillars, beetles, and ants) with some berries and fruits (mistletoe, juniper, and elderberry) Habitat: open woodlands, pastures with old trees Western Bluebirds are most visible in the local area during winter and spring. They can most often when they fly down from a perch to pluck up insects from the ground. They will also catch insects in mid-air and will actively look for them among foliage. During winter, small flocks of Western Bluebirds may be seen feeding on berries in trees. Males typically stake out a nesting territory before courting a female. The nest site is in a cavity such as a tree hollow, old woodpecker nest, birdhouse, or hole in a building. Western Bluebirds have suffered by competition with European Starlings and House Sparrows for nesting sites. Info Photos Distribution Frequency Featured |
 Photo: adult by Bob Walker  Photo: adult by Jerry Oldenettel  Photo: adult by Greg Lasley | Olive-sided FlycatcherOSFL (Contopus cooperi )Family: Tyrannidae (Tyrant Flycatchers) Size: 7.5 - 7.5 in (19 - 19 cm) Flies: Apr 21 - Sep 21 Morphology: both sexes are stocky with large heads and short tails and are olive-gray on the top fading to lighter gray on the sides, there is a distinctive white center on the breast that gives the appearance of a vest; immatures similar to adults but browner Status: native; uncommon Food source: feeds almost entirely on flying insects Habitat: spruce and fir forests, usually near openings and ponds Olive-sided Flycatchers have become less common in recent years, potentially due to loss of wintering habitat. They are most often observed sitting upright on a high perch such as the top branch of a tree or on a power line. These birds forage by watching on high, flying out to catch a passing insect, and then returning to their perch. Males defend a nesting territory by singing constantly in the spring. Nests are usually well hidden on a horizontal branch of a conifer. First flight for the young is at about 3 weeks of age. Info Photos Distribution Frequency |
 Photo: adult by J.N. Stuart  Photo: adult by J.N. Stuart  Photo: chicks in nest by Jerry Oldenettel | Western Wood-PeweeWEWP (Contopus sordidulus, Contopus richardsonii)Family: Tyrannidae (Tyrant Flycatchers) Size: 6.5 - 6.5 in (17 - 17 cm) Flies: Apr 15 - Sep 21 Morphology: medium-sized bird with a peaked crown that makes the head appear triangular; adults are grayish brown with a dark face, dark bill with some yellow at the base, pale wingbars, whitish underparts, and a bit of gray on the breast and sides; immatures are similar to adults but with buffy wingbar Status: native; common Food source: mostly flying insects: flies, wasps, bees, winged ants, and moths; occasionally eats a few berries Habitat: open woodland, woodland edges The Western Wood-Pewee is a flycatcher that is best known for its rough sounding whistle. It is very similar to the Eastern Wood-Pewee, but the two are considered to be different species. Western Wood-Pewees most often watch for an insect from an exposed tree perch and then make an aerial sortie to catch it, sometimes making a clacking noise with their bill. They will also take insects from foliage and tall grasses. Males typically sing at dawn and duck to defend a territory. Females build a flat, open nest in a tree that may look like a knot on a branch from below. Young take their first flight at about a little over 2 weeks after hatching. Info Photos Distribution Frequency |
 Photo: adult by Dave Yeamans  Photo: adult by Jon McIntyre  Photo: adult on nest by Roy Pilcher | Dusky FlycatcherDUFL (Empidonax oberholseri, Empidonax obscurus)Family: Tyrannidae (Tyrant Flycatchers) Size: 5.3 - 6 in (13 - 15 cm) Flies: Apr 15 - Sep 15 Morphology: both sexes are gray overall with lighter underparts, a yellowish wash across the chest, white eyerings, light-colored wingbars, and a slightly rounded crest that is not always visible; immatures are like adults but with broader wingbars and more yellow on the lower mandible Status: native; locally common Food source: small insects Habitat: woodlands, mountain chaparral, open forests Dusky Flycatchers are intermediate in size and shape between Hammond’s and Gray Flycatchers. They also prefer the middle elevations in the mountains. Dusky Flycatchers forage by perching in an exposed area and watching for prey. Insects are usually captured in the air but may be taken from on the ground or from off of foliage. These birds are often seen in pinyon-juniper forests but prefer to nest in mixed conifer. During courtship both members of a pair with hop around, fluttering wings. Nests are usually built in deciduous shrubs in a vertical fork among dense foliage. Young leave the nest at about 2 to 3 weeks if age. Info Photos Distribution Frequency |
 Photo: adult by Mitch Chapman  Photo: adult by Jerry Oldenettel | Cordilleran FlycatcherCOFL (Empidonax occidentalis)Family: Tyrannidae (Tyrant Flycatchers) Size: 5.5 - 6 in (14 - 15 cm) Flies: Apr 21 - Sep 21 Morphology: adults are olive above and yellowish below with two pale yellow wingbars and teardrop-shaped eyerings; immatures are similar to adults but with buffy-colored wingbars Status: native; locally common Food source: mostly insects and spiders Habitat: mountain forests, wooded canyons Cordilleran Flycaters usually forage high up among the braches of tall conifers but may perch lower in trees along streams. They will watch for insects and then fly out to catch them mid-air. However, they will also glean some prey directly from the foliage of trees and shrubs. Nest sites vary from the fork of small tree to a cleft in a vertical stream bank to a under a fallen tree. Nests may even be found in or under man-made structures. Nests are cup-shaped and made of moss, grass, and other plant fibers lined with hair and feathers. First flight occurs at about 2 weeks of age. Info Photos Distribution Frequency |
 Photo: adult by Jerry Oldenettel  Photo: adult by Mouser Williams  Photo: immature by Ricardo A. T. | Black Phoebe, Black FlycatcherBLPH (Sayornis nigricans)Family: Tyrannidae (Tyrant Flycatchers) Size: 6 - 7 in (15 - 18 cm) Flies: Feb 15 - Sep 21 Morphology: adults are mostly dark gray on the upperparts with a gray chest, white belly, and black head that may show a slight peak on the crown; immatures are similar but with buffy-colored wingbars Status: native; locally common Food source: wide variety of insects including beetles, grasshoppers, crickets, bees, wasps, and caterpillars; occasionally will eat small fish Habitat: shady areas in open woods near water Typical location: Rio Grande Black Phoebes can often be seen on a perch low over water, wagging their tails up and down. Once an insect is sighted, the bird will dart out to catch its prey mid-air or even to pluck it off the water surface. Phoebes will also hover while picking insects from foliage. They are territorial and often maintain an established territory year-round. A male will perform a song-flight display during courting and show the female a potential nesting site. The female will then build a nest made of mud, plastered to a protected spot such a cliff face, bridge support, or building wall. Young usually leave the nest at 2 to 3 weeks of age. There are typically 2 broods per year. Info Photos Distribution Frequency |
 Photo: adult by Mouser Williams  Photo: adult by Bob Walker  Photo: immature by J.N. Stuart | Say's PhoebeSAPH (Sayornis saya)Family: Tyrannidae (Tyrant Flycatchers) Size: 7 - 8 in (18 - 20 cm) Flies: Feb 15 - Nov 15 Morphology: adults are brownish gray above with a reddish-brown belly, blackish tail, a gray breast, a head feathers that is sometimes raised into a small peak; immatures are similar to adults but browner and may have a buffy wing bar Status: native; locally common Food source: feeds almost entirely on insects with some spiders and millipedes Habitat: dry sunny areas, often near buildings The Say’s Phoebe is most often seen prominently perched in low shrubs or on rocks. They typically catch insects by darting out and grabbing them in mid-air, picking them off of foliage, or scooping them up from the ground. They can also hover low over fields trying to spot prey. Like other phoebes, Say’s Phoebes have a habit of wagging their tails but, unlike other phoebes, they often live in very dry areas. Males defend a nesting territory by singing. Nests are cup-shaped and made of grass, weeds, and other materials but no mud like other phoebes. Placement of a nest can vary from on a rocky cliff to a man-made structure. Young leave the nest in about 2 weeks after hatching. There are typically 1 to 2 broods per year. Info Photos Range Frequency |
 Photo: adult by Bob Walker  Photo: adult by Bob Walker  Photo: adult on nest by J.N. Stuart | Plumbeous VireoPLVI (Vireo plumbeus)Family: Vireonidae (Vireos) Size: 5 - 6 in (13 - 15 cm) Flies: Apr 07 - Oct 15 Morphology: adults have gray heads, backs, and flanks along with white spectacles, wingbars, and bellies; immatures are similar to adults Status: native; common Food source: eats insects during summer almost exclusively; in winter, includes some berries and small fruits Habitat: coniferous forests, mixed forests The Plumbeous Vireo is one of the three separate species created from the split of the Solitary Vireo, and is a common summer bird in the Rocky Mountain region. These birds forage in a deliberate manner in the upper reaches of trees, searching for insects among the leaves. Males sing throughout the day in order to defend a territory. During courtship, they fluff themselves up and sway from side to side while singing. Nests are located near the fork in a branch of a tree, often in an oak. Both parents incubate the eggs and tend the young which leave the nest at about 2 weeks of age. Info Photos Distribution Frequency |
 Photo: adult by Hari Viswanathan  Photo: adult by Bob Walker  Photo: immature by antoniolp |  Woodhouse's Scrub-jay, Western Scrub JayWOSJ (Aphelocoma woodhouseii)Family: Corvidae (Jays, Magpies, and Crows) Size: 1 - 13 in (3 - 33 cm) Flies: Jan 01 - Dec 31 Morphology: both sexes are light blue and gray above with a a white throat, a gray breast, a partial blue band over the breast, and a long, pointed bill; chicks start out fully gray and get bluer as they get older Status: native; common Food source: diet varies with season from insects, spiders, and snails to seeds, acorns, nuts, and berries; may eat rodents, amphibians, eggs, and young birds of other species Habitat: scrub oak, woodlands, chaparral Woodhouse’s Scrub-Jays are nonmigratory birds named for Samuel W. Woodhouse who wrote about his Southwest expeditions between 1849 and 1852. They are often found in urban areas where they will come to platform and suet feeders. Typically these birds forage on the ground or in trees and will bury seeds and nuts for later retrieval. Scrub-jays are very intelligent, remembering the location and rate of decay of over 200 food caches. They will also steal food from other birds. Woodhouse’s Scrub-Jays breed as isolated pairs. Eggs are laid in a thick-walled cup-nest and hatch in a little less than 3 weeks. The young leave the nest about 3 weeks later. Info Photos Range Frequency Featured |
 Photo: adult by Bob Walker  Photo: adult by B.J. Stacey  Photo: nest by Mike Leveille | American CrowAMCR (Corvus brachyrhynchos, Corvus americanus)Family: Corvidae (Jays, Magpies, and Crows) Size: 17 - 21 in (43 - 53 cm) Flies: Jan 01 - Dec 31 Morphology: adults are entirely black including eyes, feathers are iridescent, tails are square-shaped, and wings are rounded; males are larger than females; immatures have blue eyes; note: crows are smaller in size and have thinner bills, sleeker feathers and a higher pitched voice than ravens Status: native; common Food source: omnivorous; insects, spiders, snails, earthworms, frogs, small snakes, shellfish, carrion, garbage, eggs, seeds, grain, berries, and fruit Habitat: deciduous growth along waterways, orchards, mixed evergreen woods, suburban and urban areas American Crows are common and widespread through the US having moved beyond farmlands into towns and cities. They are very intelligent and have survived several past extermination attempts. They are social, forming large community roosts in winter. A breeding pair may be helped by their offspring from previous seasons. Nests, a large basket of sticks and mud lined with soft materials, are built by both parents, usually in a crook of a large shrub or tree. Eggs are incubated, mostly by the female, for about 18 days. Both parents and sometimes “helpers” fed the chicks until they leave the nest in 4 to 5 weeks. Crows are susceptible to and may die from West Nile disease. Tracks Info Photos Distribution Frequency Featured |
 Photo: adult by Marion L. Stelts  Photo: adult by Bob Walker  Photo: nest by Hari Viswanathan | Common Raven, Northern RavenCORA (Corvus corax)Family: Corvidae (Jays, Magpies, and Crows) Size: 21 - 27 in (53 - 69 cm) Flies: Jan 01 - Dec 31 Morphology: adults entirely black including eyes, feathers are iridescent feathers, tails are wedge-shaped, and wings are pointed; immatures have blue eyes; note: ravens are larger in size and have thicker bills, shaggier feathers and a deeper voice than crows Status: native; common Food source: omnivorous; insects, rodents, lizards, frogs, eggs and young birds, carrion, and garbage Habitat: coniferous forests, deserts and mountain areas Common Ravens can be seen soaring in the skies everywhere in the local area. These birds are the largest of the passerines and are very intelligent with problem-solving and tool-using skills. In addition, they can mimic sound from their surroundings, including human speech. Immature ravens are very playful and can be observed doing things like sliding down snowbanks, apparently for fun. Ravens usually hunt in pairs in order to cooperate in flushing out prey. Nests which can be reused year after year are usually on a ledge or in a tall tree. Both parents help build the nest and feed the young which fledge about 5 to 6 weeks after hatching. Ravens are featured in the mythology of many Native American peoples. Tracks Info Photos Distribution Frequency Featured |
 Photo: adult Rocky Mountain variant by Bob Walker  Photo: adult Rocky Mountain variant by Mouser Williams | Steller's JaySTJA (Cyanocitta stelleri)Family: Corvidae (Jays, Magpies, and Crows) Size: 12 - 13.5 in (30 - 34 cm) Flies: Jan 01 - Dec 31 Morphology: large bird with rounded wings, crested head, long tail, dark blue body and black head; Rocky Mountain variant has white markings on the throat and above the eye Status: native; common Food source: seeds and nuts (especially in fall and winter), berries and fruits, insects (particularly in summer), and sometimes eggs, small rodents, and lizards Habitat: pine and oak forests Steller’s Jays are aggressive birds commonly found in Western conifer woods at low to moderate elevations. They can also be found in oak forests during the fall. Their staple food consists of conifer seeds and acorns which they often cache for later consumption. However, they are scavengers, often seen eating scraps in picnic areas and campgrounds. Steller’s Jays will visit feeders for sunflower seeds and peanuts. When not breeding, they typically live in flocks, often flying over an area in single-file. These birds are able to mimic the calls of other species, such as raptors, and can even imitate squirrels and household animals. Both sexes are very protective of their nest which consists of a ragged cup of weeds, etc., cemented together with mud. Incubation time is a little less than 3 weeks; age at first flight is not well known. Info Photos Range Frequency |
 Photo: adult by Mouser Williams  Photo: small group of adults by Hari Viswanathan | Pinyon JayPIJA (Gymnorhinus cyanocephalus, Cyanocephalus cyanocephalus)Family: Corvidae (Jays, Magpies, and Crows) Size: 9 - 11 in (23 - 28 cm) Flies: Jan 01 - Dec 31 Morphology: both sexes are dull blue with white chin, short tail, and long bill; immatures are similar to adult but duller in color Status: native; locally common Food source: seeds (especially those from the pinyon pine), fruits, insects, and sometimes eggs Habitat: ponderosa pine, pinyon-juniper, mixed pine oak forests Typical location: White Rock Spectacularly colorful and noisy flocks arrive in the summer. Pinyon Jays primarily forage on the ground but can clean out a bird feeder in no time. Flocks tend to follow the pinyon crop. They store the nuts in late summer and early fall by burying them in the ground for later retrieval. Social organization among these jays is complex with overall permanent flocks that can reach several hundred in size. The birds nest in colonies in cup-shaped nests found high up in juniper, oak, and pinyon trees. Incubation time is a little less than 3 weeks with the young leaving the nest about 3 weeks after that. Info Photos Distribution Frequency |
 Photo: adult by Hari Viswanathan  Photo: adult by J.N. Stuart  Photo: adult by Marshal Hedin | Clark's Nutcracker, Meat BirdCLNU (Nucifraga columbiana)Family: Corvidae (Jays, Magpies, and Crows) Size: 12 - 13 in (30 - 33 cm) Flies: Jan 01 - Dec 31 Morphology: adults are ash gray overall with black wings, black tail with white on the sides, and black bill, legs, and feet; immatures look similar to parents but with bluer features Status: native; common Food source: diet primarily consists of pine seeds with the rest made up of other seeds, nuts, berries, insects, snails, and eggs Habitat: stands of juniper and ponderosa pine Clark’s Nutcrackers are fairly common in spring, summer, and fall, particularly in areas remote from human contact. However, they will fearlessly walk about in picnic grounds and parking lots looking for handouts. However, these birds are most talented at prying open pine cones to extract the seeds. They may temporarily store the seeds in a throat pouch until they can be added to a hidden cache for later consumption. These caches help support the birds during the breeding which can occur in late winter. Nests, located in a conifer on a horizontal branch, consist of a platform of twigs supporting a cup of grasses and bark strips. Both parents incubate the eggs and care for the young once they have hatched. The nestling usually leave the nest about 18 to 21 days after hatching. Info Photos Range Frequency |
 Photo: male by Mouser Williams  Photo: female by Bob Walker | Brewer's BlackbirdBRBL (Euphagus cyanocephalus)Family: Icteridae (Blackbirds and Orioles) Size: 8 - 10 in (20 - 25 cm) Flies: Mar 15 - Nov 21 Morphology: males are glossy black overall with yellow eyes, a purple sheen on the head, and greenish iridescence on the body; females are shades of brown with dark eyes; immatures are similar to the females but lighter brown Status: native; common Food source: ostly insects and seeds with some berries Habitat: riversides,meadows, fields, areas covered with brush, lawns Typical location: Ashley Pond, The Stables Brewer’s Blackbirds adapt well to habitats altered by humans and have expanded their range eastward in the US during the last hundred years. They can now be seen in suburban areas walking along the ground, scavenging for crumbs. They will also forage in farming areas, sometimes following behind machinery to catch insects that have been disturbed. In winter, they usually forage in large flocks. Brewer’s Blackbirds nest in colonies consisting of 20 to 30 pairs. Nests are of a bulky open cup design often with mud or dried manure added to the base. A colony may change the nesting site preference from year to year, using small bushes one year and tall trees the next. Info Photos Range Frequency |
 Photo: male by Hari Viswanathan  Photo: female by Rebecca Shankland  Photo: nest by Eugene Zelenko | Bullock's OrioleBUOR (Icterus bullockii)Family: Icteridae (Blackbirds and Orioles) Size: 12 in (30 cm) Flies: Apr 21 - Sep 15 Morphology: adult males have orange and black plumage with a black throat patch and white wing bar; adult females are gray-brown with yellow breast pale yellow underparts, and olive crown; immatures look similar to adult females Status: native; uncommon Food source: insects, berries, and nectar Habitat: parks, fields, open woodlands; especially attracted to cottonwoods Bullock’s Orioles are beautiful migrants that spend their winters in the tropics. They are seen in this area mainly during spring but they actually spend the summer here. They are attracted to water gardens and will come to sugar-water and fruit feeders. These orioles rarely forage on the ground, preferring to search the foliage of trees and shrubs for insects. They build nests in deciduous trees that look like hanging pouches made of tightly woven plant fibers and grasses. Females incubate the eggs till hatching at about 11 days. Then both parents feed the young for about two weeks until they fledge. Info Photos Range Frequency |
 Photo: breeding adult by Jerry Oldenettel  Photo: non-breeding adult by Mouser Williams  Photo: adult by Eric Isley | Western MeadowlarkWEME (Sturnella neglecta)Family: Icteridae (Blackbirds and Orioles) Size: 8.5 - 11 in (22 - 28 cm) Flies: Feb 21 - Oct 15 Morphology: both sexes have long bills, rounded, short wings, and a short, spiky tail; they have yellow underparts and patterned brown, black, and buff upper parts with dark and light brown stripes on the head; breeding birds have bright yellow breast with a distinctive black “V”; nonbreeding birds have light yellow breast and greatly faded “V” Status: native; uncommon Food source: mostly insects and seed; the former especially in summer and the latter in winter Habitat: open meadows, plains, prairies Although the Western Meadowlark is very similar to the Eastern Meadowlark they have different songs and rarely interbreed despite having overlapping ranges in some areas. Western Meadowlarks forage on the ground, sometimes using their bills to probe in the soil. In winter, they usually forage in flocks. Males, who are more often heard rather than seen, sing to defend a nesting territory. One male usually has two mates at the same time. The females do most of the work related to the incubation and care of the young. Nests are on the ground and consist of a domed structure with a side entrance and trail leading up to it. Young leave the nest at about 12 days old but are tended by their parents for at least another two week. Info Photos Distribution Frequency |
 Photo: adult by J.N. Stuart  Photo: adult by Jerry Oldenettel  Photo: immature by Greg Lasley | Northern MockingbirdNOMO (Mimus polyglottos)Family: Mimidae (Mockingbirds, Thrashers, and Allies) Size: 9 - 11 in (23 - 28 cm) Flies: Apr 15 - Sep 07 Morphology: adults are gray-brown overall and a bit paler on the breast and belly with two white bars on the wings and white outer tail feathers; immatures are similar with spotted breast Status: native; uncommon Food source: half insects and other arthropods; half berries and fruits Habitat: residential areas, parks, farmlands, thickets, desert brush Typical location: White Rock Canyon Northern Mockingbirds are known for mimicking the songs of other birds. They are heard all day long and often into the night during nesting season. These birds mostly walk on the ground to capture insects but will fly down from a low perch if an insect is spotted. Northern Mockingbirds are very aggressive in defending their territory, flashing white wing patches and even attacking house pets and people. Nests have a bulky foundation which the male builds and a soft lining which the female adds. Young leave the nest between 1 and 2 weeks of age but are not able to fly well for another week or so. There are typically 2 to 3 broods per year. Info Photos Distribution Frequency |
 Photo: adult by Bob Walker  Photo: adult by Mouser Williams | Sage ThrasherSATH (Oreoscoptes montanus)Family: Mimidae (Mockingbirds, Thrashers, and Allies) Size: 8.5 in (22 cm) Flies: Jan 01 - Dec 31 Morphology: both sexes are drab gray above with black spots on the breast, fine brown streaks on the flanks, white outer tail feathers, white wingbars, and large yellow eyes Status: native; uncommon Food source: eats mostly insects and berries plus some spiders and cultivated fruits Habitat: sagebrush plains, floors of rocky canyons, dense thickets The Sage Trasher is the smallest thrasher and is rather elusive. It will often run on the ground rather than fly if disturbed. These birds also forage by running around on open ground near areas with low shrubs. They will also perch in low trees and bushes to eat berries and will come to gardens for food. During breeding season, males will sing incessantly to defend a territory. Nests are typically located in sagebrush or other low bushes such as chamisa. Although cowbirds will lay eggs in a thrasher nest, the thrashers parents will toss them out. There may be 2 broods per year. Info Photos Distribution Frequency |
 Photo: adult by David Yeamans  Photo: adult by Bob Walker | Curve-billed ThrasherCBTH (Toxostoma curvirostre, Harporhynchus curvirostris)Family: Mimidae (Mockingbirds, Thrashers, and Allies) Size: 9.5 - 11.5 in (24 - 29 cm) Flies: Jan 01 - Dec 31 Morphology: Similar to adult, but with shorter, straighter bill, yellower eyes, and less obvious spots. Status: native; common Food source: mostly insects and their larvae, as well as spiders, snails, sowbugs, and prickly-pear and saguaro berries Habitat: desert brush, cactus, sagebrush, town Typical location: La Senda, Pajarito Acres The Curve-billed Thrasher is fairly conspicuous due to its habit of dashing about in the open and loudly calling from the tops of small trees. The local area is at the northern edge of its range. These birds forage on the ground, tossing aside litter to find insects. They will also dig in the soil to find food. Curve-billed Thrashers will come to feeders in areas with cholla and sage. The cholla cactus is this bird’s top choice for a nesting site. If the nest is exposed to bright sun, the female will spend time shading the young. There are typically 2 broods and sometimes 3 per year. Info Photos Distribution Frequency |
 Photo: adult by Greg Lasley  Photo: adult by Bob Walker | Canyon TowheeCANT (Melozone fusca, Aimophila fuscus)Family: Passerellidae (New World Sparrows and Allies) Size: 8 - 10 in (20 - 25 cm) Flies: Jan 01 - Dec 31 Morphology: large sparrows with long tails and chunky bodies; adults are plain brown overall but have rusty undertail feathers, buffy throats, and reddish crowns Status: native; common Food source: mostly seeds and insects with some berries and small fruits; young fed almost entirely on insects Habitat: bushy and rocky hills in arid country Canyon Towhees can be seen just about everywhere in the local area. They even favor hopping around inside a garage when the door has been left open. They will feed on the insects caught in a car grill and then will hide under the car when disturbed. They prefer to forage under things like logs and scratch in the dirt much less than towhee species do. Canyon Towhees may mate for life and a pair will stay together all year round in a permanent territory. Nests are of a bulky cup design and usually located in a small tree or dense shrub. The young may leave the nest before they can fly, climbing about in the bushes waiting to be fed. It is typical for there to be 2 to 3 broods in a year. Info Photos Distribution Frequency Featured |
 Photo: adult by Dave Yeamans  Photo: adult by Mouser Williams  Photo: immature by Frank Fogarty | Townsend's SolitaireTOSO (Myadestes townsendi)Family: Turdidae (Thrushes) Size: 8 - 9 in (20 - 23 cm) Flies: Jan 01 - Dec 31 Morphology: both sexes are gray with prominent white eye rings, buffy wing patches, and white outer tail feathers; immatures are gray spotted with buff and white Status: native; common Food source: primarily insects, spiders, and other invertebrates in summer and berries ,such as those from juniper and mistletoe in winter Habitat: open coniferous forests, edges, burns Townsend’s Solitaires often sit all alone on an exposed perch for long periods. Their upright posture makes them appear long and slender. They are usually seen in winter when both sexes will defend patches of juniper. These birds typically forage by flying out to catch insects mid-air or by fluttering down to the ground to snatch up food. During breeding season, males will guard the area around the nest by singing either from a high perch on while in flight. Nests are located in a protected spot such as in a shallow depression in a slope or in a crevice. They are of an open-cup design but rather bulky and loosely made. Young probably leave the nest at about 2 weeks of age. Info Photos Range Frequency |
 Photo: male by Bob Walker  Photo: female by Bob Walker  Photo: male bathing by Hari Viswanathan | American Robin, RobinAMRO (Turdus migratorius)Family: Turdidae (Thrushes) Size: 9 - 11 in (23 - 28 cm) Flies: Jan 01 - Dec 31 Morphology: males are gray-brown with orange underparts and dark heads; females are similar but with paler colors; both sexes have long legs and tail Status: native; common Food source: insects, spiders, berries, earthworms, and snails depending on the time of year Habitat: towns, gardens, open woodlands, coniferous forests in mountains, agricultural areas American Robin are ubiquitous in the area, particularly during summer. This species is the largest North American thrush. Robins forage on the ground, running along or hopping and then pausing when they spot prey. Males will defend nesting grounds before the arrival of females. Females build a nest made of grasses and twigs worked into a foundation of mud. Nests are usually located on a horizontal branch of a tree or shrub. The mother typically lays four “robin’s egg blue” eggs that hatch in 12 to 14 days. The young fledge about 14 to 16 days later. American Robins usually have two broods per season but may have a third. Info Photos Distribution Frequency Featured |
 Photo: adult by Selvi Viswanathan  Photo: adult by Bob Walker  Photo: adult at nest in the vertical iron pipe by JN Stuart | Ash-throated Flycatcher, Lower California FlycatcherATFL (Myiarchus cinerascens)Family: Tyrannidae (Tyrant Flycatchers) Size: 8 in (20 cm) Flies: Apr 01 - Aug 21 Morphology: males and females look similar; grayish brown overall, yellow belly, a white throat, two white wingbars, and cinnamon streaks on the primary feathers and underside of tail Status: native; locally common Food source: mostly insects including caterpillars, beetles, grasshoppers, and flies; also eats some spiders, fruits, and berries Habitat: deserts with cactus and mesquite thickets, dry woods, semi-arid country, canyon areas Ash-throated Flycatchers are spread throughout the west, preferring arid areas. These birds seldom forage by taking insects mid-air. Rather they fly out from a perch and pick insects from foliage while hovering. Alternatively, they will perch in shrubs or cacti to feed on fruit. Flycatchers primarily build nests in holes in trees, most often natural cavities or old woodpecker holes. However, given that the trees in their preferred nesting area may be small, they will use other hollow places like pipes and posts. The nest consists of a mass of weeds and grass lined with soft material. Females incubate the eggs for about 15 days. The young fledge at about 2 weeks of age. There are often 2 broods per year. Info Photos Distribution Frequency |
 Photo: adult by Jerry Oldenettel  Photo: adult by Bob Walker | Western Kingbird, Arkansas FlycatcherWEKI (Tyrannus verticalis)Family: Tyrannidae (Tyrant Flycatchers) Size: 8 - 9 in (20 - 23 cm) Flies: Apr 21 - Sep 21 Morphology: gray-headed birds with straight bills, brown wings, yellow belly, white chest and throat, and black tails with white outer feathers Status: native; uncommon Food source: eats mostly insects but also spiders, millipedes, and some berries and fruits Habitat: open country, ranches, roadsides, waterways with trees Western Kingbirds are most often seen in open areas on prominent perches. They will fly out and snatch up an insect either in mid-air or from off the ground and then return to the same perch. They will also pursue flying insects for long distances. Males have an elaborate courtship display, soaring to about 60 feet (18 meters) in the air and then stopping abruptly and falling towards the ground. These birds have adapted well to civilization and will even build nests attached to utility poles near busy city streets. Western Kingbirds are very feisty and protect their nests by harassing much larger birds that come too close. The eggs are incubated for a little over 2 weeks. The young leave the nest approximately 3 weeks later. Info Photos Distribution Frequency |
 Photo: adult by Jerry Oldenettel  Photo: adult by Joe Zarki | Cassin's KingbirdCAKI (Tyrannus vociferans)Family: Tyrannidae (Tyrant Flycatchers) Size: 8 - 9 in (20 - 23 cm) Flies: Apr 01 - Sep 07 Morphology: adults have dark grey faces with a white mustache and are gray on the head and chest, yellow on the belly and under the tail, and white on the tips of a dark tail Status: native; locally common Food source: eats a wide variety of insects along with some berries and fruits Habitat: savannas, rangelands, pinyon-juniper woodlands Typical location: Bandelier Entrance Road, Lower Ancho Canyon The Cassin’s Kingbird is similar to the Western Kingbird but with darker plumage. In addition, in comparison to Westerns, they are generally found higher in the trees and are usually quieter. These birds tend to sit on a perch looking for insects, and then fly out to capture it mid-air. Alternatively, they will pick off insects from leaves or from the ground. Courtship includes a fast, zigzag dance with outstretched wings and high-pitched calls. This dance is performed several times over a number of days. Nests are located high up in a deciduous tree or pine and have a bulky cup shape. Adults will harass larger birds that come too close. Info Photos Range Frequency |
 Photo: male by Bob Walker  Photo: female by Bob Walker  Photo: immatures by Mouser Williams |  Black-chinned Hummingbird, Alexander HummingbirdBCHU (Archilochus alexandri, Trochilus alexandri)Family: Trochilidae (Hummingbirds) Size: 3.3 - 3.8 in (8 - 10 cm) Flies: Apr 01 - Oct 15 Morphology: slender hummingbirds that are dull metallic green above and grayish white below with black mostly straight bills; males have a black throat with a thin, iridescent purple base; females have a pale throat and white tipped outer tail feather; immatures resemble females Status: native; common Food source: nectar and insects Habitat: alpine meadows, woodlands, thickets, chaparral, orchards Typical location: White Rock Black-chinned Hummingbirds are seen in large numbers during the summer wherever hummingbird feeders and flowers are present. They will feed at flowers while hovering but will both hover and perch at feeders. They will fly out to catch small insects, pluck them from foliage, or even pick them out of spider webs. In colder weather, these hummingbirds may ingest as much as three times their body weight in nectar in a single day. Males perform a courtship display that consists of flying back and forth in a U-shaped arc. The nest is a compact cup of plant fibers held together with spider webs and camouflaged on the outside. The incorporation of the spider silk allows the nest to stretch, expanding as the nestlings grow. Info Photos Distribution Frequency Featured |
 Photo: male by Selvi Viswanathan  Photo: female by Lee Bill  Photo: male and female by Deborah Halter | Broad-tailed HummingbirdBTAH (Selasphorus platycercus, Trochilus platycercus)Family: Trochilidae (Hummingbirds) Size: 4 - 4.5 in (10 - 11 cm) Flies: Mar 15 - Oct 21 Morphology: both sexes have slender bodies, long tails, iridescent green upper parts, greenish/buffy flanks, white chest, and a line down the belly; males have a magenta gorget; females and immatures have a pale eyering and green spots on their throats and cheeks Status: native; common Food source: mostly nectar and tiny insects; particularly attracted to red flowers Habitat: pinyon-juniper, dry ponderosa pines, mixed fir forests, canyon vegetation Typical location: Los Alamos, White Rock The Broad-tailed Hummingbird has gotten its name from its tendency to spread out its tail feathers, flashing white tail tips. These birds can be seen in large numbers during the summer wherever hummingbird feeders and flowers are present. While they may perch at a feeder, they will usually feed while hovering, extending their long tongues to reach deep into the feeder or flower. They will also catch insects either by flying out to grab them or by plucking them off of foliage. Broad-tailed Hummingbirds will slow their metabolism and go into a state of torpor on cold nights. Nests are located in trees sheltered by an overhanging branch and are made of spider and plant materials covered with moss and bits of bark. Info Photos Distribution Frequency Featured |
 Photo: adult by BJ Stacey  Photo: adult by Mouser Williams  Photo: adult by Mouser Williams |  White-throated SwiftWTSW (Aeronautes saxatalis)Family: Apodidae (Swifts) Size: 6 - 7 in (15 - 18 cm) Flies: Feb 15 - Oct 21 Morphology: noted for long, pointed, swept-back wings and long tails; adults have white throats, bellies, and rumps with black backs, wings, and tails; immatures are similar to adults but duller Status: native; locally common Food source: feed on a wide variety of flying insects, including flies, beetles, wasps, winged ants, etc. Habitat: arid mountains or other rocky areas, near cliffs and canyons White-throated Swifts are most often observed near cliffs and canyons where they may fly in small groups, chattering constantly. As a species they are one of the fastest flying birds. They forage in flight and often range widely, potentially foraging many miles from their nesting sites. Mating occurs in the air with the pair sometimes joining and then tumbling down for hundreds of feet. Nests are usually in a narrow crevice in a cliff or in a man-made structure such as a bridge, overpass, or building. The young are usually about 6 weeks old before they can fly. Info Photos Distribution Frequency |
 Photo: male by Bob Walker  Photo: female by Mouser Williams  Photo: nest with young by J.N. Stuart | Barn SwallowBARS (Hirundo rustica)Family: Hirundinidae (Swallows) Size: 5.8 - 7.8 in (15 - 20 cm) Flies: Mar 21 - Oct 07 Morphology: when perched adults appear cone-shaped with broad shoulders tapering to long, pointed wings; both sexes have a blue back, wings and tail with rufous to tawny underparts, a blue crown and face, and cinnamon-colored forehead and throat; the colors on males are more vivid than those on females Status: native; locally common Food source: primarily eats a wide variety of flying insects such as flies, beetles, winged ants, etc. as well as some other insects and a few spiders Habitat: agricultural land, suburban areas, marshes, lake shores Typical location: Ashley Pond, The Stables, White Rock Canyon Barn Swallows are migratory birds breed in NorthAmerica and winter in Central and South America. The species is also common in Europe and Asia where they tend to have a white breast. They can most often be seen flying low over fields or water. Barn Swallows can execute quick turns and dives and most often catch and eat their prey in the air. Females prefer to mate with males that have a dark breast color and a very long, symmetrical tail. Both parents make numerous trips to collect collect mud to build a cup-shaped nest, typically near humans in manmade sites such as in barns or garages or under bridges or eaves. The parents may be assisted in caring for the new young by offspring from a previous brood. There can be up to two broods per year. Info Photos Distribution Frequency |
 Photo: adult by Mouser Williams  Photo: adult by Greg Lasley  Photo: nest by J.N. Stuart | Cliff SwallowCLSW (Petrochelidon pyrrhonota, Hirundo pyrrhonota)Family: Hirundinidae (Swallows) Size: 5 - 6 in (13 - 15 cm) Flies: Apr 07 - Sep 21 Morphology: adults have metallic, dark-blue backs, white underparts, orange rumps, red faces, and a white patch on the forehead; immatures look like messy adults with brown faces and dark breasts Status: native; uncommon Food source: mostly eats insects and some spiders Habitat: open country near buildings,lake shores,marshes Typical location: White Rock Canyon Cliff Swallows generally feed on the wing. They forage in flocks, flying low over water or very high over other areas. However, they will feed on the ground in bad weather. These birds have increased in number over the last several hundred years and have shifted their nesting sites from being exclusively on the sides of cliffs to more often the sides of man-made structures such as barns and bridges. They nest in large colonies. Their jug-shaped nests are made of dried mud and have a small entrance on one side. Both sexes build the nest and may repair and reuse an old one. Females have been know to lay eggs in their own nests and then move one of the eggs to another female’s nest. Once the young leave the nest they congregate in large groups. Parents can recognize their own young in the group by voice. Info Photos Distribution Frequency |