# SPECIES

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Breeds on the tundra and in coastal marshes; also found in pelagic waters and, less commonly, on large inland lakes and reservoirs (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range includes Greenland; and western and northern Alaska east across northern Yukon, northwestern and central Mackenzie, Keewatin and the Arctic islands, northeastern Manitoba, Southampton Island, northern Ontario, and northern Quebec to northern Labrador.  Winters at sea in the Pacific Ocean from central California southwards; and in the Atlantic-Gulf region from Maine south to Florida and west to Texas.  Most of the migration is off the Atlantic and Pacific coasts (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: The Parasitic Jaeger appears more slender-bodied than the Pomarine; falcon-like in its flight, its wing beats are not as deep nor as slow as in Pomarine Jaeger.  On wings, white flash at base of primaries is less extensive than in Pomarine Jaeger.  Tail streamers are straight and pointed in adult birds; note also the breast band (usually not as dark as in Pomarine Jaeger) and facial color patterns in light phase birds.  There are three color phases (light, dark, and intermediate).  Oftentimes, separation from Pomarine Jaeger is difficult or impossible; it is suggested that advanced bird identification guides be consulted to aid in identification, especially when immature birds are involved.

Nest Habits: Breeds in colonies.  Nests on the ground; nest is a scrape or depression, sometimes lined with leaves, lichens, or grasses.

Eggs: 1-2, usually 2; 57 mm.; olive or brown in color, with brown markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 25-28 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 25-30 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Breeds on the tundra; also found in pelagic waters and, less commonly, along seacoasts or on large inland lakes and reservoirs (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range includes Greenland; and western, northern, and central Alaska east across Yukon, northern Mackenzie and the Arctic islands, Keewatin, and Southampton Island to northern Quebec.  Winters at sea in the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans off the coast of South America; most of the migration is off the Atlantic and Pacific coasts (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Tail streamers in adult birds are very long and diagnostic; flight style is tern-like (compare with Parasitic Jaeger).  On wings, white flash at base of primaries on underside of wing is less extensive than in Parasitic Jaeger and is present only on immature birds; in both immatures and adults white flash on upperwings is very limited (again, compare with Parasitic Jaeger).  There are three color phases (light, dark, and intermediate).  One good field mark is to note contrast between grayish back and secondary coverts and the darker primary and secondary feathers.  Oftentimes, separation from Parasitic Jaeger is difficult; it is suggested that advanced bird identification guides be consulted to aid in identification, especially when immature birds are involved.

Nest Habits: Nests on the ground; nest is a scrape or depression.

Eggs: 1-3, usually 2; 55 mm.; olive or brown in color, with brown markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 23-25 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 22-28 days old.


SECRETS:
The adaptations of the 3 species of skimmers in the world include a vertically slit pupil (similar to a cat) to withstand the glare of the sand; and the longer lower mandible, which is held in a downward angle in flight to catch their food.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in coastal areas and associated estuaries, bays, lagoons, beaches, and mudflats (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range is primarily in localized coastal areas, including the Atlantic coast from southern Massachusetts south to Florida and west along the Gulf coast to Texas and Mexico.  Also breeds on the Pacific coast from northern California south to Mexico.  Generally winters along the Gulf coast, in Florida (sometimes as far north as North Carolina), and from southwestern California south to Mexico (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Large size, black-and-white plumage, and unusually shaped black and red bill make this species easy to identify.

Nest Habits: Breeds in colonies.  Nests on the ground; nest is a scrape or depression.

Eggs: 1-5, usually 4; 34 mm.; blue-white or cream-white in color, with brown, lilac, and gray markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 21-23 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 23-25 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Nests on coastal cliffs; found in pelagic waters (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding areas include eastern Baffin Island and coastal areas in Greenland.  Generally winters within the breeding range south to Southampton Island, Ungava Bay, the Gulf of St. Lawrence, and the Bay of Fundy; occasionally occurs as far south as North Carolina on the Atlantic coast; casually occurs at Point Barrow, Alaska, along the Arctic coast of Canada, and elsewhere in Canada and the northern United States (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: A small, chubby seabird, the Dovekie has a very short bill, black upperparts, and white underparts with streaking on the flanks.  Throat is black in breeding season, white in the winter.

Nest Habits: Breeds in colonies.  Nests in a rock crevice on steep cliff faces.

Eggs: 1; 48 mm.; bluish-white in color.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 28-31 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 26-30 days old.


SECRETS:
In the northern Atlantic region, there is a form of the Common Murre known as Bridled Murre; it has a white eye ring and streak extending back from the eye; it was once thought to be a separate species.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Nests on coastal cliffs; found in pelagic waters and rocky seacoasts (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeds in coastal areas in Greenland, along the Atlantic coast from Labrador and southeastern Quebec south to Newfoundland and Nova Scotia, and along the Pacific coast from Alaska and the Aleutian Islands south to central California.  Generally winters at sea near the breeding grounds, ranging as far south as northern Baja California in the Pacific and Virginia along the Atlantic coast (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: A large seabird, the Common Murre has a long, pointed bill, blackish-brown upperparts, brownish head, and white underparts with some streaking on the flanks.  Throat is dark in breeding season, white in the winter; note facial pattern of winter-plumaged birds.

Nest Habits: Breeds in colonies.  Nests on cliff ledges.

Eggs: 1; 81 mm.; white in color, with shades of blue, green, or brown and with brown or black spots or scrawls.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 32-33 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 19-21 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Nests on coastal cliffs; found in pelagic waters (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeds in coastal areas in Greenland; in eastern North America from Prince Leopold, Cobourg, Bylot, and Baffin Islands south to northern Hudson Bay, northern Quebec, Labrador, and Newfoundland; and along the Pacific coast from Alaska and the Aleutian Islands south to British Columbia.  Also breeds in northwestern Mackenzie.  Generally winters at sea near the breeding grounds, ranging as far south as central California in the Pacific and New Jersey in eastern North America; occasionally may be seen in the Great Lakes region and south to Florida in the winter (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: A large seabird, the Thick-billed Murre has a medium-length, stout bill with the appearance of a hook at its end; black upperparts; and white underparts with some streaking on the flanks.  White underparts form an inverted 'V' on the upper breast where it meets the dark throat.  Throat is dark in breeding season, dusky-white in the winter.  Overall, darker than Common Murre, but compare to that species in all plumages.

Nest Habits: Breeds in colonies.  Nests on cliff ledges.

Eggs: 1; 81 mm.; bluish-green, white, or pale white to olive buff in color, with brown markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 30-35 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 21 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Nests on coastal cliffs and rocky shorelines; found in pelagic waters (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeds in coastal areas in Greenland and in eastern North America from southeastern Baffin Island and Labrador south to southeastern Quebec, eastern Newfoundland, southern New Brunswick, eastern Maine, and Nova Scotia.  Generally winters at sea near the breeding grounds, ranging as far south as New York, and occasionally to South Carolina or Florida (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: A large seabird, the Razorbill has black upperparts, white underparts and, in the breeding season, a narrow white line running from the base of the upper mandible to the eye.  Throat is dark in breeding season, white in the winter.  Bill is thick (from top to bottom) and large upper mandible is hooked at the end; note white vertical line which crosses upper and lower mandibles.  The tail points upward on swimming birds.

Nest Habits: Breeds in colonies.  Nests on cliff ledges or in rock crevices.

Eggs: 1-2, usually 1; 76 mm.; bluish-white or greenish-white in color, with brown or black markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 35-37 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 16-25 days old.


SECRETS:
Although it once numbered into the millions, the Great Auk was a flightless bird that was hunted excessively for food and for bait; last living birds were taken in 1844 near Iceland.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Occurred in pelagic waters and on coastal islands (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Currently extinct.  Breeding range formerly included the Gulf of St. Lawrence, Greenland, Newfoundland, and Iceland; winter range extended from breeding areas south to Maine and Massachusetts, and occasionally south to South Carolina (A.O.U. 1998).


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Nests on rocky islands or coastal cliffs; found in coastal waters (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeds in coastal areas in Greenland; in northern Alaska and northern Yukon; and in eastern North America from the Arctic islands south to northern Ontario, Hudson and James Bays, Newfoundland, New Brunswick, and southern Nova Scotia.  Generally winters in the Bering Sea and in coastal areas of eastern North America from breeding grounds south to New England, and occasionally as far south as New York and New Jersey (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: In breeding season, note all-black body plumage, with conspicuous white wing patch.  In winter, back has a dark, gray-white mottled appearance, wings are dark with white wing patch, and undersides are white.  Bill is of medium-length, and is narrow and pointed.  Note white axillaries on flying birds; compare with Pigeon Guillemot.

Nest Habits: Usually breeds in colonies.  Nests on the ground in rocky areas, in crevices on cliff face, or even amidst flotsam on beach habitats.

Eggs: 1-2, usually 2; 60 mm.; dull white in color, with gray or dark brown markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 28-32 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 34-39 days old.


SECRETS:
The Pigeon and Black Guillemot are very similar in appearance; in fact, it is believed by some authorities that they constitute different forms of the same species.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Nests on rocky shorelines or coastal cliffs; found in coastal waters (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeds locally in coastal areas from western and northern Alaska south to southern California.  Generally winters in coastal waters near breeding grounds: from Alaska to central California, and occasionally to southern California (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: In breeding season, note all-black body plumage, with conspicuous white wing patch that has a black, triangular insert.  In winter, back has a dark-grayish mottled appearance, wings are dark with same white/black pattern as in breeding plumage, undersides are white, and head is duskier than in Black Guillemot.  Bill is of medium-length, and is narrow and pointed.  Note dark gray axillaries on flying birds; compare with Black Guillemot.

Nest Habits: Usually breeds in colonies.  Nests in a crevice or cave on cliff face; also in abandoned burrows of other bird or mammal species; alternatively may excavate its own burrow.

Eggs: 1-2, usually 2; 61 mm.; dull white in color, with gray or dark brown markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 30-32 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 35 days old.


SECRETS:
Management of federal forest lands in CA, OR, & WA was deadlocked in a controversial debate for years; President Clinton intervened, & the result was the President's Forest Plan. This species & the Spotted Owl are at the heart of that plan.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in old, coniferous forests, on islands, and in coastal waters (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeds locally along the Pacific coast, specifically in southern Alaska, coastal British Columbia, western Washington, and in central California; breeding at other areas between central California and Alaska is probable, but not documented.  Generally winters in coastal waters throughout breeding range, extending south to northern Baja California (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: In breeding season, has mottled gray-brown appearance, with darker coloration to wings and back.  In winter, generally white below and dark, grayish-black on upperparts.  Bill is relatively short and pointed.  Note white bar on scapulars and dark tail; compare with Kittlitz's Murrelet.

Nest Habits: Nests on the ground on islands.  However, unlike other murrelets which nest in burrows or rock crevices, also nests high (up to 150 feet) in mature and old-growth coniferous trees; Marbled Murrelets may nest as many as 30 miles inland from the coast.  Surprisingly, the first confirmed nest of this species in North America was not made until 1974, when one was found in California.

Eggs: 1; 60 mm.; light greenish-yellow in color, with black and brown markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 27-30 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 27 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in coastal waters and adjacent cliffs and mountains (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeds in coastal areas, from northwestern Alaska south to the Aleutian Islands and east to southeast Alaska; generally winters in nearby offshore waters (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: In breeding season, has mottled gray-brown plumage with a white belly.  Bill is shorter than in Marbled Murrelet.  In winter, generally white below and dark, grayish-black on upperparts; white on side of face encompasses the eye.  Note white outer tail feathers; compare with Marbled Murrelet.

Nest Habits: Nests on the ground, usually on bare rock or cliff ledge.

Eggs: 1; 60 mm.; olive in color, with dark and light brown markings.

Incubation: Little information is known.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found on islands and in coastal and pelagic waters (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeds on islands offshore from southern California and western Baja California; generally winters in coastal waters throughout breeding range and as far north as northern California, occasionally further north (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Crisp black above; white below.  Two forms are known, and differ in amount of white on side of face.  Note white wing linings; compare with Craveri's Murrelet.  Also lacks the partial dark collar of the Craveri's Murrelet.

Nest Habits: Nests on the ground, in caves, or in crevices or burrows under large rocks.

Eggs: 1-2, usually 2; 54 mm.; blue, green, or dark brown in color, sometimes with lavender or brown markings.

Incubation: Both sexes are thought to incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 34 days.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found on islands and in coastal and pelagic waters (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range is primarily limited to the Gulf of California, where it breeds on islands; also probably breeds along the west coast of Baja California.  Generally winters at sea and in coastal waters throughout the Gulf of California; post-breeding dispersal also occurs as far north as Monterey Bay (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Crisp black above; white below.  Note partial white eye ring.  Grayish wing linings and partial neck collar on sides of chest distinguish this species from Xantu's Murrelet.

Nest Habits: Breeds in colonies on islands.  Nests on the ground, usually in a rock crevice.

Eggs: 1-2, usually 2; yellowish-white, olive, or brown in color, with brown markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 22 days.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in pelagic waters and along rocky seacoasts (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeds locally along the Pacific coast, from southern Alaska south to British Columbia, and occasionally to northwestern Washington.  Generally winters in offshore coastal waters throughout breeding range, north to the Aleutian Islands, and south to central California (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Black head, grayish back, white wing linings.  In breeding season, sides of breast change from gray to black; also note white feathering above eye.  Bill is short, and pale-colored.  Compare with Marbled Murrelet.

Nest Habits: Nests on the ground, usually in rock crevice or in abandoned burrows; nest is sometimes lined with grass and leaves.

Eggs: 1-2, usually 2; 61 mm.; bluish-white to cream, or olive in color, with gray and brown markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 33-36 days.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in pelagic waters and on islands (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Localized coastal breeding distribution ranges from southern Alaska south to southern Baja California.  Generally winters in offshore waters from southern British Columbia south through the breeding range (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Mostly gray, with slightly darker upperparts; note pale white belly and white undertail coverts.  Conspicuous, partial white eye ring form crescents above and below the eye.  Note small, pale coloration at base of lower mandible.

Nest Habits: Breeds in colonies, on islands.  Nests in burrows or crevice.

Eggs: 1; 47 mm.; white, with a bluish or greenish tint.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 38 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 41 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in pelagic waters and along rocky seacoasts (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range in North America is limited to western coastal Alaska and nearby islands, including the Aleutian Islands.  Generally winters at sea, from the northern Pacific Ocean south to central California (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Note mottled gray sides, gray breast and throat (dusky white in winter), dark gray neck and upperparts, elongated white feathers or plumes trailing back from the eye, and thick, heavy red bill.

Nest Habits: Breeds in colonies.  Nests in rock crevice in cliff, on steep slopes, or on beaches.

Eggs: 1; 54 mm.; white or bluish-white in color.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 35-36 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 35 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in pelagic waters and on islands (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range in North America is limited to the Bering Sea islands and the Aleutian Islands.  Winters offshore in the Bering Sea and near the Aleutian Islands (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Similar to Parakeet Auklet, but note entirely gray underparts and conspicuous crest or tuft of feathers.

Nest Habits: Breeds in colonies.  Nests in rock crevice in cliff, on steep slopes, or on beaches.

Eggs: 1; 54 mm.; color varies from white to light blue.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 34-41 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 35 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in pelagic waters and on islands (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range in North America is limited to the Aleutian Islands.  Winters in waters offshore from the Aleutian Islands (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Smaller than Crested Auklet, with white plumes before and in back of the eye.  Also has conspicuous crest; crest, entirely gray underparts, and smaller size separate it from Parakeet Auklet.  Note also the orangish, white-tipped bill.  Winter plumage is duller.

Nest Habits: Breeds in colonies.  Nests in rock crevice or burrow on steep slopes or beaches.

Eggs: 1; 48 mm.; dull white in color.

Incubation: Little information is known; incubation lasts approximately 35 days.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in pelagic waters and on islands (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range in North America is limited to islands in western Alaska, the Bering Sea islands near Alaska, and the Aleutian Islands.  Winters offshore in the Bering Sea and near the Aleutian Islands (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Our smallest North American alcid.  Variably dusky gray-white below in breeding season, white below in the winter.  Upperparts are dark blackish-gray.  Bill is short, reddish in color.  White feathers on forehead and at base of bill are augmented in breeding season by white plumes extending back from the eye.

Nest Habits: Breeds in colonies.  Nests in rock crevice in cliff, on steep slopes, or on beaches.

Eggs: 1; 40 mm.; white.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 31 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 29 days old.


SECRETS:
Rhinoceros Auklets nest in burrows which they excavate themselves, using their bill and feet.  Some burrows may be as deep as 20 feet into the side of a hill or bank.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in pelagic waters and on islands (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends along the Pacific coast, from Alaska south to southern California; nests on islands.  In the winter, can be found in offshore waters from southern British Columbia south to Baja California (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Note large, thick, yellowish-orange bill; in the breeding season, a rhinoceros-like horn appears at base of bill.  White plumes on side of face originate from junction of upper and lower mandible and from behind eye.  Otherwise, plumage is generally gray, with blackish-brown back and wings, and a whitish belly.  In the winter, head plumes and bill color are duller.  Compare with Parakeet Auklet.

Nest Habits: Breeds in colonies.  Nests in burrows; nest itself is built from sticks, grasses, and feathers.

Eggs: 1; 69 mm.; white in color, sometimes with gray or lavender markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 45 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 48-55 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in pelagic waters, and on islands and rocky seacoasts (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeds in Greenland; also breeds in North America from Labrador south coastally to southeastern Quebec, Newfoundland, southwestern New Brunswick, and eastern Maine.  Generally winters at sea and in offshore waters from Labrador south to Massachusetts and occasionally as far south as Virginia (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Note extremely large bill, white oval facial patch, white underparts, and black neck and back.  Winter plumage is duller; bill is less massive in immatures.

Nest Habits: Breeds in colonies.  Nests in burrows; nest is usually lined with grass, seaweeds, and feathers.

Eggs: 1-2, usually 1; 63 mm.; white in color, sometimes with brown markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 39-45 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 38-44 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in pelagic waters and on islands (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range in North America is limited to the coasts of northern, western, and southern Alaska, and the Aleutian Islands, south to British Columbia.  Generally winters at sea and in offshore waters from the Bering Sea and the Aleutian Islands south occasionally to southern California (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Note extremely large bill, white oval facial patch, white underparts, and black neck and back.  Winter plumage is duller; bill is less massive in immatures.

Nest Habits: Breeds in colonies.  Nests in burrows or rock crevices; nest is sometimes lined with grasses, mosses, and feathers.

Eggs: 1; 72 mm.; white with light spotting.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 40-42 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 34-40 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in pelagic waters and on islands (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeds in coastal areas; breeding range extends from Alaska and the Aleutian Islands south to southern California; winters at sea and in offshore waters throughout the breeding range to central California (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Note extremely large, colorful bill, and (in breeding season) white triangular facial patch and yellowish plumes.   Adults are otherwise blackish overall in the breeding season, and have blackish-brown underparts in winter.  Bill colors are duller in winter, and bill is yellowish-gray and less massive in immatures.  Plumage is grayer in immatures, which also have grayish-white underparts.

Nest Habits: Breeds in colonies.  Nests in burrows or rock crevices.

Eggs: 1; 72 mm.; pale blue or off-white in color, with lavender and brown markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 41 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 45 days old.


SECRETS:
Red-throated Loons are not commonly found at inland locations; to maximize your opportunities of finding them on inland lakes or reservoirs, search in the fall (October or November), especially after the passage of major weather fronts.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found on tundra lakes and ponds, along seacoasts and associated bays and estuaries, and occasionally on lakes and rivers (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from coastal Alaska east through central Yukon, Mackenzie, and the Arctic islands to Greenland; and south to Vancouver Island (along the Pacific coast), northern Saskatchewan, Hudson Bay, and northern Newfoundland.  Generally winters in coastal areas; in the west from Alaska south to Baja California and Mexico; and in the east from Newfoundland south to Florida; rarely on the Gulf coast (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Grayish face and neck, with red throat patch.  In winter, has pale gray crown and nape, white cheek and throat.  Best field mark is the bill, thinner than in Common Loon and usually held at a slightly upturned angle.

Nest Habits: Nests on the ground, either in a depression or on a mound of mud and plants.

Eggs: 1-3, usually 2; 73 mm.; olive-green to dark brown in color.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 24-29 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 49-51 days old.


SECRETS:
Two subspecies are known, one of which breeds in eastern Siberia and western Alaska; the other form breeds in Europe and Asia. Both were once regarded as distinct species (A.O.U. 1998).

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Breeds in tundra and taiga habitats; also frequents seacoasts and associated bays and estuaries; and, less commonly, lakes and rivers (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeds in western Alaska; occasionally found in winter in western and southern Alaska and in California (A.O.U. 1998); accidental elsewhere in North America.

Field Marks: Often inseparable from Pacific Loon.  However, in winter, white flank patch on swimming bird can be used to distinguish this species from Pacific Loons.

Nest Habits: Nests on the ground, usually on a mound of aquatic vegetation and mud.

Eggs: 1-3, usually 2; 84 mm.; brownish in color, with brown markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 28-30 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 60-65 days old.


SECRETS:
See Secrets for Arctic Loon; the complex taxonomy involving these species is made even more interesting when it is revealed that the Pacific Loon was once regarded as a subspecies of the Arctic Loon!

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Breeds in tundra and taiga habitats; also frequents seacoasts and associated bays and estuaries; and, less commonly, lakes and rivers (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from the Arctic coast of Alaska and the Arctic islands south to southern Alaska, southwestern Yukon, southern Mackenzie, northeastern Alberta, northern Manitoba, northern Ontario, and northwestern Quebec.  Generally winters along the Pacific coast of North America, from Alaska to Baja California and Mexico, and less commonly inland to Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas.  Rare elsewhere in North America (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Grayish head and neck and iridescent throat patch (usually purple, but may seem like black or green) are characteristic of breeding plumage.  In winter, head and neck are pale gray, with a darker border around the white throat; this color pattern is absent in Red-throated Loon.  A thin, brownish neck strap is seen in some birds.

Nest Habits: Nests on the ground, usually on a mound of aquatic vegetation and mud.

Eggs: 1-2, usually 2; 76 mm.; brownish in color, with brown markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 23-25 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 60-65 days old.


SECRETS:
The wailing, haunting cry of the Common Loon is often heard in the sound tracks of Hollywood movies; sometimes, the movies place loons in areas where they are not known to breed!

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found on lakes, ponds, rivers, and seacoasts and associated bays and estuaries (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from Alaska east across Yukon, northwestern and southern Mackenzie, central Keewatin, northern Manitoba, northern Ontario, southern Baffin Island, and Labrador to Newfoundland; and south to Nevada, western Wyoming, northern North Dakota, the Great Lakes region, northern New York, southern New England, and Nova Scotia.  In winter can be found on the Pacific coast (Aleutian Islands south to Baja California), the Atlantic coast (from Newfoundland south to Florida), and on the Gulf coast south to Texas (A.O.U. 1998).  In the summer, non-breeding plumaged Common Loons occasionally are found south of known breeding range.

Field Marks: This is the loon that most novice birders and non-birders are familiar with.  Bill is thick, long, and pointed; in the breeding season bill it is black, but becomes grayer in winter.  In the breeding season, the blackish crown and nape encircle neck in a pattern reminiscent of a barber pole; in the winter, white indentation on neck is the only remnant of this feature.  Observers should study this neck pattern closely as it will aid in identification of winter-plumaged loons along the coast, where more than one species may be present simultaneously.  Checkered pattern on back in breeding season is replaced with dark brown coloration in winter.

Nest Habits: Nests on the ground, usually on the shoreline of an island; nest may be a simple scrape or it may be placed on a mat of grasses, twigs, and other vegetation.

Eggs: 1-3, usually 2; 89 mm.; olive-green to dark brown in color, with dark brown markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 26-31 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 75-80 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Breeds on tundra lakes; also frequents seacoasts and associated bays and estuaries; less commonly found on inland lakes in winter (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeds on the Arctic tundra of northwestern Alaska, the Arctic islands, east-central Mackenzie, and northern and east-central Keewatin.   Generally winters along the Pacific coast from Alaska south to British Columbia, less commonly to northern California and inland to Alberta; casual or accidental elsewhere at inland locations during the winter (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Best field mark is the pale yellow bill, the upper mandible of which has a straight top edge, thereby giving the bill a slightly upturned appearance.  Although bill is darker in the winter, note the diagnostic dark spot behind the eye in winter plumage.  Compare with Common Loon.

Nest Habits: Nests on the ground; nest may be a simple scrape or it may be placed on a mound of grasses, twigs, and mud.

Eggs: 2; 89 mm.; yellow-olive to brown in color, with dark brown markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 27-29 days.


SECRETS:
The Rock Dove has not only been introduced into the U.S., but it is now found widely established throughout the world.  First introduced into North America in the early 1600's, Rock Doves are known to breed in every month of the year.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in urban areas, about farmlots, under large bridges, and on natural cliff walls or along rocky seacoasts; usually close to human settlements.

Distribution: Resident throughout the United States and Mexico, and northward into the middle latitudes of the Canadian provinces.

Field Marks: Many different color variations exist, from all white to the typical grayish plumage.  In flight, dark tail band and white rump are typical of birds from wild stock.

Nest Habits: Nests on cliff ledges or, more commonly, on the side of buildings or under cover of large man-made structures (e.g., bridges or barns).  Nest is a loosely built, saucer-shaped structure of sticks, twigs, and grasses.

Eggs: 1-2, usually 2; 39 mm.; white.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 16-19 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 25-26 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in mangrove, tropical deciduous, and tropical lowland evergreen forests (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Found in the Florida Everglades and Florida Keys.

Field Marks: Overall, blackish in color, except for back of neck, which has iridescent feathers; and crown, which is white, dull white, or grayish-brown depending on sex and age.

Nest Habits: Nests in trees, usually up to 15 or more feet above the ground.  Nest is a platform built from twigs and lined with roots and grasses.

Eggs: 1-2, usually 2; 37 mm.; white.

Incubation: Both sexes are thought to incubate the eggs and care for the young.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in montane evergreen and tropical lowland evergreen forests (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Native to the West Indies; considered a casual visitor in southern Florida at Key West (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Overall, blackish in color, except for iridescent purple and chestnut feathering on rear of neck.  Note also red eye ring in male; yellow eye ring in female.

Nest Habits: Does not breed in North America.


SECRETS:
Study Band-tailed Pigeons in flight; at first, although they may resemble Rock Doves, you'll be able to see differences in flight style & overall shape. In time, you will be able to identify these birds from silhouette alone in flight!

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in forested areas, including suburban woodlands.

Distribution: Breeding range extends from southwestern British Columbia southward through the coastal states and western Nevada to Baja California; and from southern Nevada, Arizona, Utah, Colorado, New Mexico, and western Texas southward into Mexico.  Generally winters from western Washington, central California, Arizona, and western Texas south throughout breeding range (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Wings and back are gray, with darker primary feathers and primary coverts; tail is also gray, with a broad, light gray terminal band.  Undersides are purplish.  Note bicolored bill and white stripe on hind neck.

Nest Habits: Nests in trees, usually up to 40 or more feet above the ground.  Nest is a platform built from sticks or twigs and sometimes lined with pine needles.

Eggs: 1-2, usually 1; 40 mm.; white.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 18-20 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 25-27 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in forested areas, and forest edge habitats.

Distribution: Resident from Mexico and southern Texas south to Central America (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Overall dark plumage with purplish chest and bicolored bill.

Nest Habits: Nests in trees, usually up to 30 feet above the ground.  Nest is a loose platform of twigs, lined with stems and grasses.

Eggs: 1-2, usually 1; 38 mm.; white.

Incubation: Both sexes are thought to incubate the eggs and care for the young.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in open scrub or plains habitats; also frequents open woodlands (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Native to the Europe, Africa, and Asia; considered accidental in southern Florida (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Note black patch with white dots on side of neck (absent in immatures).  Dark tail, bordered in white.

Nest Habits: Does not breed in North America.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in open forest and savanna habitats (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Native to Asia; considered a casual visitor to Alaska (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Similar to European Turtle-Dove, but larger; black patch on side of neck has bluish-gray (not white) dots.  Dark tail, bordered in white.

Nest Habits: Does not breed in North America.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in agricultural lands and in suburban areas (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Native to Asia, introduced into North America.  Established in southern California (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Note brownish-gray tail, the outer tail feathers of which are black with white tips.  Brownish-gray upperparts, purplish-pink below; note spotted collar, for which it is named.  Compare with Mourning Dove.

Nest Habits: Nests in trees, usually up to 40 feet above the ground.  Nest is a platform built from small sticks.

Eggs: 2; white.

Incubation: Little information is known.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in suburban, park, and farm grove habitats (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Native to the Europe and Asia; introduced and now established in southern Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, and southeastern Louisiana (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Soft gray plumage overall; tail appears dark at base, with a wide terminal white band (as seen from below in flight).  Black and white collar on back of neck is key; compare with Ringed Turtle-Dove, which is an escaped cage bird in portions of the U.S.

Nest Habits: Little information is known.


SECRETS:
This is yet another species for which conservation measures were not enacted early enough to maintain a viable population. The last living bird died in captivity in 1914. At one time, observers could count billions of these birds!

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Formerly found in forests; also frequented nearby open country habitats and cultivated lands (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Extinct.  Breeding range formerly extended from Montana, east-central Saskatchewan, southern Manitoba, the Great Lakes region, southern Quebec, New Brunswick, and Nova Scotia south to eastern Kansas, Oklahoma, Mississippi, and Georgia; wintered in the mid-West and southeast, from Arkansas, southern Missouri, Tennessee and North Carolina south to the Gulf coast and Florida (A.O.U. 1998).

Formerly a common migrant in North America, the cause for this species' decline is likely attributable to unlimited hunting, loss of forest lands, and harassment of nesting colonies.  W.R. Manlove (1933. The Migrant 4(2):18-19.  A roost of the wild pigeon.) described a flight of these birds that took place in the fall of 1870 at a location 10 kilometers north of Nashville, TN, as follows:

	When a flock of pigeons approached a grove the column would wheel and the first birds would alight on the ground under the trees in perfect alignment and begin to feed.  The birds following would hover a moment on the wing and then drop in front of the first rank.  When the first had advanced to where the second rank had been feeding, it would again take wing and drop in front, as before.  This constant movement gave to the flock the appearance of a great cylinder of fluttering birds, hundreds of yards long, rolling through the woods with machine-like precision, and at about the speed a man would walk.


SECRETS:
Mourning Doves begin incubating as soon as the 1st egg is laid; as a result, the 2nd egg laid hatches about 2 days after the 1st; resulting size difference in nestlings can easily be observed. One pair may raise 2-5 broods per season.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Widespread; found in open woodlands, agricultural areas, suburban areas, and open habitats (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from central British Columbia, east across central Alberta, central Saskatchewan, southern Manitoba, the Great Lakes region, southern Quebec, Maine, and New Brunswick to Nova Scotia; and south to the Gulf coast, Baja California, and Mexico; northern populations are migratory (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Note brownish-gray upperparts, with black spots; pale gray underparts, with pink hue.  Brownish-gray tail, the outer tail feathers of which are blackish-gray with white tips.  In flight, tail narrows to a point, and wings are falcon-like, with pointed tips.  When flushed, note the distinctive whistling sound that its wings make.

Nest Habits: Nests in trees (sometimes on the ground), usually up to 40 or more feet above the ground.  Nest is a flimsy platform built from sticks or twigs.

Eggs: 1-4, usually 2; 28 mm.; white.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 13-14 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 12-14 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in tropical deciduous forests, lowland scrub habitats, and in second-growth habitats (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Native to the West Indies; formerly resident in the Florida Keys, where it bred.  Now considered a casual visitor in southern Florida (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Compare with Mourning Dove; note more rounded, gray-tipped tail and white trailing edge to secondary feathers (seen in flight and on bird at rest).  Compare also with White-winged Dove.

Nest Habits: Does not breed in North America.


SECRETS:
White-winged Doves can easily be detected once one knows the song, which is often described as 'Who-cooks-for-you?'  Once you have learned this song, you can detect the presence of this species even before one is seen.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in tropical deciduous forest, riparian thickets, open scrubby areas, and second-growth habitats (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from southeastern California, southern Nevada, southwestern Utah, central Arizona, central New Mexico, and western and central Texas south to Baja California and Mexico; locally breeds in southern Louisiana and southern Alabama.  Populations in California, Nevada, and Utah are migratory (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Note white wing patch, and white tips to tail feathers; tail is more rounded in shape than Mourning Dove.

Nest Habits: May breed in colonies.  Nests in trees or shrubs, usually up to 25 feet above the ground.  Nest is a saucer-shaped structure built from sticks, twigs, or grass.

Eggs: 1-4, usually 2; 31 mm.; creamy buff to white.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 13-14 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 13-16 days old.


SECRETS:
If you're looking for your lifer Inca Dove, don't be fooled into thinking you have go to some wild, ultra-rural setting: these birds are commonly seen in cities and towns. Walk alley ways or quiet streets and listen for its song.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in riparian thickets, second-growth habitats, and open, scrubby areas (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: This species is resident from southeastern California, southern Nevada, central Arizona, southern New Mexico, central Texas, and western Louisiana south into Mexico; also breeds in northeastern Baja California (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Larger than Common Ground-Dove; both species have rufous flash in wings, but the Inca Dove has a longer, white-edged tail and a scaled appearance on belly and flanks.

Nest Habits: Nests in trees or shrubs, usually up to 25 feet above the ground.  Nest is a saucer-shaped structure built from twigs, weeds, grasses, and other vegetation.

Eggs: 2; 22 mm.; white.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 14 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 14-16 days old.


SECRETS:
The Common Ground-Dove, perhaps more so than other southern doves, is prone to wandering far north of its normal range. Look for them in the fall, especially in the mid-West following the passage of a hurricane in the Gulf coast area.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in second-growth habitats, open, scrubby areas, pastures, agricultural lands, and in lowland pine savanna habitats (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: This species is resident from the southern United States and Baja California south into Mexico.

Field Marks: This dove is identified by its tiny size, flash or rufous in the wing, and grayish-black tail.  Compare with Inca Dove.

Nest Habits: Nests on the ground, but may sometimes nest in shrub or tree (up to 21 feet above the ground).  Nest is a simple scrape (ground) or saucer-shaped structure (shrub or tree) made from twigs and other vegetation.

Eggs: 2-3, usually 2; 22 mm.; white.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 12-14 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 11 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in second-growth habitats, riparian thickets, and open, scrubby areas (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Resident of Mexico and Central America; rarely found in southern California, southern Arizona, and southern Texas (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Compare with Common Ground-Dove; lacks that species' scaled appearance on head and breast.  Also note more rufous coloration on back and mostly dark bill.

Nest Habits: Little information is available.


SECRETS:
This species was formerly called White-fronted Dove.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in various forested and wooded habitats, including brushy thickets, and tropical deciduous or evergreen forests.

Distribution: This species is resident in southern Texas and in Mexico.

Field Marks: Grayish-brown back, paler underparts, and mostly dark tail with outer tail feathers tipped with white.

Nest Habits: Nests in shrub or tree, usually up to 12 feet above the ground.  Nest is a flimsy saucer-shaped structure built from sticks, grass, and other vegetation.

Eggs: 2; 31 mm.; creamy-buff to white in color.

Incubation: Both sexes care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 14 days.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in tropical deciduous forests (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Native to the West Indies; considered a casual visitor in southern Florida, where it apparently was once more common and perhaps even bred (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Note purplish hue to wings, back, and tail; and greenish tint to nape of neck.  White line on side of face is located below the eye.

Nest Habits: Does not breed in North America.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in tropical evergreen and mixed evergreen-deciduous forests; also on coffee plantations.

Distribution: Native to the West Indies, Mexico, and Central America; considered a casual visitor in southern Texas and southern Florida (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Note buffy-white line below eye (compare with Key West Quail-Dove).  Upperparts are brown or chestnut in color; underparts are tan or cinnamon-buff in color.

Nest Habits: Nests on the ground, or builds a stick platform nest in tree.

Eggs: 2?; buff-colored.

Incubation: Incubation period lasts approximately 11 days.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in suburban areas, with open grassy habitats nearby (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Native to Australia; introduced (and now established) in west-central Florida.  However, this is a common cage bird, and escapes may be found in many areas of North America (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Variable plumage; typically birds have yellow head and back, with dark barring on back; wings are dark yellowish-green, and rump and underparts are green.  In flight, also note white wing stripe.

Nest Habits: Lays 4-7 eggs.  Female incubates the eggs and both sexes care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 18 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 30-36 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in forested pine habitats.

Distribution: Now endemic to northwest Mexico; formerly wandered north to Arizona.  Recently was introduced to southeastern Arizona (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: A large, greenish parrot, with red forehead extending back and over the eye; also note red shoulder and, in flight, yellow stripe on underside of wing.

Nest Habits: Nests in tree cavity.

Eggs: 1-2; white.

Incubation: Little information is known.


SECRETS:
The A.O.U. (1998) notes that the last known living Carolina Parakeet died in the Cincinnati Zoo on 21 February 1918; however, other sources indicate the last known individual of this species died there in September 1914.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Formerly found in deciduous and riverine forests, and cypress swamps; also foraged in cultivated areas (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Extinct.  Former range extended from eastern Nebraska, Iowa, southeastern Wisconsin, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey south to Florida, the Gulf coast states, and southern Oklahoma (A.O.U. 1998).

Formerly a common species, the Carolina Parakeet is notable in that it was the only member of its family that was native to the United States.  However, because it was a known agricultural pest, farmers hunted and killed these birds.  Carolina Parakeets were also shot by sport hunters, and some were taken from the wild to become cage birds.  These activities, combined with habitat loss, likely contributed to the overall decline and extinction of this species.  The last known living Carolina Parakeet died in the Cincinnati Zoo in 1918 (A.O.U. 1998).


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in urban and suburban areas, including city parks (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Native to South America; introduced (and now established) in the eastern United States, ranging from Illinois, Michigan, southern Quebec, southern New York, Connecticut, and Rhode Island south to New Jersey; also in Texas and Florida.  Individual reports are known from other states, west to California and Oregon (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Greenish upperparts, wings, and tail; note lemon-yellow belly and undertail coverts, and dull, grayish-white throat and chest.

Nest Habits: Nests in trees, where it builds bulky, domed stick nests, up to 40 feet above the ground.  Lays 5-9 eggs, which are white.  Incubation lasts approximately 31 days.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in suburban areas and in parks (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Native to South America; introduced (and now established) in southern California and in west-central and southeastern Florida (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Greenish parakeet, with conspicuous wing patches.  Wing patches are predominantly white with a yellow hue to them.

Nest Habits: Nests in cavities, or (in California) in dead fronds of palm trees; lays 5 eggs, which are white.  Female incubates the eggs; incubation lasts approximately 26 days.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in mixed deciduous-evergreen forests, along forest edge, and in areas with scattered trees (A.O.U. 1998); also in urban and suburban areas.

Distribution: Native to Mexico; introduced (and now established) in southern Florida.  A known breeding population in Texas in the lower Rio Grande Valley is thought to have originated from birds that escaped from captivity (A.O.U. 1998).  Origin of birds in southern California is also thought to be of escaped cage birds.

Field Marks: A large, rather chunky parrot.  Greenish overall, with red crown (less extensive in female) and forehead, red wing patch, and black tips to primary feathers.

Nest Habits: Little information is available.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in taiga and other open habitats; also in bushy habitats, and open woodlands and along forest edge (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Native to Europe, Asia, Africa, and India; occasionally found in migration in Alaska and the Aleutian Islands; considered accidental in Greenland and Massachusetts (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: There are two color phases: gray and brown; interestingly, only immatures and females exhibit the brown form.  In gray phase, head and upperparts are gray, and tail is dark gray; underparts are dull white, with narrow gray barring (compare with Oriental Cuckoo).  In brown or red phase, both underparts, back, and tail are heavily barred with black; however rump is paler than similar phase in Oriental Cuckoo.

Nest Habits: Does not breed in North America.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in forested areas (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Native to Asia and Australia; considered a casual visitor to Alaska and the Aleutian Islands (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: There are two color phases: gray and brown.  Similar in appearance to Common Cuckoo, but is generally darker above and is more heavily barred underneath; in brown or red phase, rump is usually more heavily barred than in Common Cuckoo.

Nest Habits: Does not breed in North America.


SECRETS:
The call most frequently heard is a repetitive series of 'cu-cu-cu' phrases; in areas where range overlaps with Least Bittern, use caution in identifying birds by sound alone, as this call is similar to call of Least Bittern.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in scrubby habitats, along woodland edge, and in open woodland areas (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from east-central Alberta across southern Saskatchewan, southern Manitoba, the Great Lakes region, and New Brunswick, to Nova Scotia; and south to Montana, southeastern Wyoming, eastern Colorado, north-central Oklahoma, and Tennessee east to the Carolinas.  This species winters in South America (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Compare with Yellow-billed Cuckoo; note black bill, absence of rufous wing patches, reddish eye ring, and gray-and-white undertail pattern.

Nest Habits: Nests in shrubs or trees, usually up to 10 or more feet above the ground.  Nest is a platform built from twigs and grasses and lined with fern leaves, grass, and other vegetation.

Eggs: 2-5, usually 2-3; 27 mm.; bluish-green.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 10-13 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 7-9 days old.


SECRETS:
Common call is a series of 'kuks', ending with descending 'cowlp!' notes; also may give a monotonous series of 'oooh' calls in the summer.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in forested areas, open woodlands, and in riparian forests.

Distribution: Breeding range includes southern Ontario, southwestern Quebec, and most areas of the United States south and east of central California, southern Idaho, Wyoming, southeastern Montana, and North Dakota east to Maine; also breeds in Baja California, and in Mexico; winters in South America (A.O.U. 1998).  Has experienced significant population decline in California.

Field Marks: Compare with Black-billed Cuckoo; note yellow lower mandible, presence of rufous wing patches, lack of reddish eye ring, and black-and-white undertail pattern.

Nest Habits: Nests in shrubs or trees, usually up to 12 or more feet above the ground.  Nest is a platform built from twigs and lined with leaves, grass, and other vegetation.

Eggs: 1-8, usually 4; 31 mm.; light bluish-green in color.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 9-11 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 7-8 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in forested areas, scrubby forested habitats, along woodland edge, and in mangrove forests.

Distribution: This species is a resident of Mexico and southern Florida; it is considered a casual visitor to southeastern Texas and in northern and peninsular Florida (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Black mask, and buffy belly and undertail coverts distinguish this species from Yellow-billed Cuckoo.  Entire underparts are buffy in birds from Mexico.

Nest Habits: Nests in shrubs or thickets.  Nest is a platform built from twigs.

Eggs: 2; 31 mm.; greenish-blue in color.

Incubation: Little information is known.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in brushy fields, scrublands, and in agricultural areas, including pastures.

Distribution: This species' limited distribution includes central and southern Florida (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Black color, large bill, and elaborate tail distinguish anis from other North American birds; bill of this species rises above crown and lacks 'grooves' (compare with Groove-billed Ani).

Nest Habits: Employs communal nesting strategy, whereby two or more pairs contribute to nest building and the rearing of young; eggs laid in nest are laid by more than one female.  Nests in trees, usually up to 30 feet above the ground.  Nest is a bulky, cup-shaped structure built from sticks, weeds, leaves, and grasses.

Eggs: 2-4; 35 mm.; light blue in color.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 14 days.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in second-growth habitats, open areas, along forest edge, and in farm fields.

Distribution: This species is a resident of southern Baja California, Mexico, central and southern Texas, and southern Louisiana; it is especially prone to wandering, and has been seen as far north as Colorado, Minnesota, and southern Ontario (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Black color, large bill, and elaborate tail distinguish anis from other North American birds; bill of this species is smaller than in Smooth-billed Ani; note that the bill does not rise above crown and has grooves (visible only at close range).

Nest Habits: Employs communal nesting strategy, whereby two or more pairs contribute to nest building and the rearing of young; eggs laid in nest are laid by more than one female.  Nests in shrubs or trees, usually up to 12 or more feet above the ground.  Nest is a bulky, cup-shaped structure built from twigs and lined with leaves.

Eggs: 3-8, usually 3-4; 31 mm.; blue, sometimes greenish, with a chalky coating.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 13-14 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 7 days old.


SECRETS:
The Roadrunner is well-built for its ground-dwelling habits; surprisingly, despite its appearance, it has a melodic song, a series of descending 'coo' notes.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in scrubby or brushy habitats, in desert or arid environments; also near agricultural lands (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Resident from north-central California east to southwestern Missouri; and south to the Gulf coast, Baja California, and Mexico (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Large size, long tail, and boldly streaked appearance make the Greater Roadrunner easy to identify.

Nest Habits: Nests in shrub, cactus, or tree, usually up to 15 feet above the ground.  Nest is a platform built from sticks and lined with leaves, grasses, and other vegetation.

Eggs: 2-6, usually 3-5; 39 mm.; white, occasionally yellowish in color.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 20 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 18 days old.


SECRETS:
In addition to being found in rural areas, the Barn Owl can also be found in urban and suburban environments; on calm nights, the careful observer may hear its call or see it flying with the aid of street lights.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in open areas, including open grasslands; utilizes man-made structures such as buildings or bridges for nest sites; also nests in caves or hollow trees (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: In Canada, it is found in southern British Columbia, extreme southern Ontario, and in southern Quebec; also throughout the United States except northern Idaho, northern Minnesota, and the extreme northeastern U.S.  Breeding range extends southward into Baja California and Mexico (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Note pale reddish-brown back and wings; underparts vary from near white to pale reddish in color, and have a speckled, sandy appearance.  Facial disk is white; eyes are dark.

Nest Habits: Nests in sheltered locations such as a hollow tree cavity, old barn, rock crevice on cliff, etc.; will also utilize nesting boxes erected for it.

Eggs: 3-11, usually 5-7; 43 mm.; white or buffy-white in color.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and both sexes care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 30-34 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 52-56 days old.


SECRETS:
This small owl feeds largely on insects, spiders, scorpions, and other arthropods; this diet may, in large part, explain its highly migratory behavior.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Montane forests, typically pine forests (A.O.U. 1998); also frequents oak woodlands.

Distribution: Breeding range extends from south-central British Columbia, central Washington, southern Idaho, western Montana, and north-central Colorado south to eastern Oregon, south-central California, Arizona, New Mexico, western Texas, and Mexico.  Highly migratory, this species winters from central Mexico south to Central America (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Two color phases are known: red and gray.  Small size; small ear tufts.  Dark eyes separate this species from the Screech-Owls.  Nocturnal; active only at night.

Nest Habits: Sometimes breeds in loose colonies.  Nests in tree cavities, typically abandoned woodpecker holes.

Eggs: 2-4, usually 3-4; 29 mm.; white.

Incubation: Female primarily incubates the eggs and both sexes care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 26 days.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in forested areas (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Native to Asia; considered accidental in the Aleutian Islands (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Small size; mottled plumage is grayish-brown in color.  Compare with our Screech-Owls, which have more streaking or barring.

Nest Habits: Does not breed in North America.


SECRETS:
Formerly classified as one species with the Eastern Screech-Owl; like that species, it is easily found using whistled imitations or tape recordings of its call.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in wooded areas, typically oak and riparian forests (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: This species is resident along the Pacific coast, from southern Alaska south to Baja California and Mexico; range extends eastward to south-central British Columbia, northern Idaho, south-central Montana, northwestern Wyoming, southeastern Colorado, extreme western Oklahoma, and south-central Texas (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Small size, yellow eyes, ear tufts.  Compare with Eastern Screech-Owl: note dark bill.  Usually, plumage is grayish, but some birds in the northwestern part of its range are more brownish in color.  Call is similar to Eastern Screech-Owl, but with practice can be readily distinguished from that species.

Nest Habits: Nests in tree cavities, usually up to 30 feet above the ground.

Eggs: 2-6, usually 2-5; 36 mm.; white.

Incubation: It is thought that only the female incubates the eggs; both sexes care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 21-30 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 28 days old.


SECRETS:
Eastern Screech-Owls can sometimes be found roosting in Wood Duck boxes during the fall and winter months; in early morning light, they may be seen perched at the entrance hole to the box. Occasionally, they breed in these boxes, as well.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in open deciduous or mixed deciduous-coniferous woodlands, especially oak woodlands; also riparian woodlands (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: This species is resident from the Atlantic coast (from southwestern Quebec south to Florida) west to southern Saskatchewan, central Montana, northern and eastern Wyoming, eastern Colorado, western Oklahoma, and west-central Texas and eastern Mexico (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Small size, yellow eyes, ear tufts.  Compare with Western Screech-Owl: note pale-colored bill.  Two color phases are typically seen: red and gray.  Call is similar to Western Screech-Owl, but with practice can be readily distinguished from that species.

Nest Habits: Nests in tree cavities, usually from 15-50 feet above the ground.

Eggs: 2-8, usually 4-5; 34 mm.; white.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 26 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 27 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in pine forests and pine-oak forests (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: This species is resident from southeastern Arizona south into Mexico (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Small size, yellow eyes, ear tufts.  Compare with Western Screech-Owl: it is slightly smaller than that species, but identification is best made by voice in areas where the range of each species overlaps.

Nest Habits: Nests in tree cavities, usually up to 18 feet above the ground.

Eggs: 3-4, usually 3; 33 mm.; white.

Incubation: Little information is known; role of parents in incubation and brood rearing is probably similar to the other species of Screech-Owls described here.


SECRETS:
Can often be seen at dusk, perched on light pole or at top of tree. A powerful owl; evidence of encounter between this species and a Wild Turkey was once discovered in southern Illinois: the turkey lost!

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Frequents a wide diversity of forested habitats, especially forests and woodlands with scattered openings.

Distribution: Widespread; occurs throughout North America with the exception of extreme northern Alaska and extreme northern Canada.

Field Marks: This is the owl that most novice and non-birders are familiar with; its 5-8 note call is easily learned.  Large size, conspicuous ear tufts; bulkier and more heavily built than Long-eared Owl.  Note chestnut facial disk, yellowish eyes, and barred underparts.

Nest Habits: May nest on the ground, on a cliff ledge, or in some other sheltered area; but typically nests up to 70 feet high in tree.  Usually uses old tree nest of hawk, heron, or crow.

Eggs: 1-6, usually 2-3; 55 mm.; white.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 26-35 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 35 days old.


SECRETS:
The Snowy Owl is an irruptive species, occurring in areas far south of its normal wintering range when its primary prey species (lemming and Arctic Hare) are in extremely low numbers; this may happen every 4-5 years.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Breeds on the Arctic tundra; also frequents open areas (e.g., airports, grassy fields, open floodplains, etc.) in winter.

Distribution: Breeding range extends from the Aleutian Islands and northern Alaska east across northern Yukon, northern Mackenzie, Keewatin, the Arctic islands, northeastern Manitoba, and northern Quebec to northern Labrador.  Winter range is variable, typically from breeding area south to southern Canada, North Dakota, the Great Lakes region, and New York, but occasionally may be found much further south (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: A large, tuftless white owl, with yellow eyes.  Barring on front of bird and spotting on upperparts are usually less prominent on adult males; and most apparent on immature birds.  Diurnal; may often be spotted during daylight hours.

Nest Habits: Nests on the ground; nest is a simple scrape which is sometimes lined with moss, lichens, or grass.

Eggs: 3-9 or more, usually 3-4; 56 mm.; white or creamy white in color.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and both sexes care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 32-34 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 16 days old.


SECRETS:
Perhaps due to natural range expansion or habitat modification, the Barred Owl was able to recently cross the Great Plains into western Canada, & south into the range of the Spotted Owl; hybrids of these 2 species have been documented.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in coniferous forests, mixed coniferous-deciduous forests, and in hardwood forests, including riparian hardwood habitats; usually in stands with mature or old-forest conditions.

Distribution: This species is resident from southwestern British Columbia south through western Washington, western Oregon, and throughout California and extreme western Nevada; also occurs in the Rocky Mountain region from southern Utah and Colorado southward into Arizona, New Mexico, and Mexico.

Field Marks: A relatively large, tuftless owl; brownish-gray in color, with dark eyes and white spots on head, back, and wings. Compare with Barred Owl; note that the underparts of the Spotted Owl are barred with brown and white pattern, whereas Spotted Owl shows both barring and streaking on underparts.

Nest Habits: Usually nests in trees, typically in cavities or in a snag or tree whose top has broken off; however, nest may also be placed on debris platform resulting from abandoned nest of hawk or raven, mistletoe brooms, or squirrel nests.  Other nesting sites may include caves or cavities in cliffs.

Eggs: 1-4, usually 1-2; 50 mm.; white or buffy-white.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and both sexes care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 28-32 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 34-36 days old.


SECRETS:
Call, 'Who-cooks-for you, who-cooks-for-you-all!', is easily learned; Barred Owls are not as tame nor as easily approached as Spotted Owl.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in dense woodlands and swamps, especially floodplain or lowland forested habitats.

Distribution: In the west, this species is resident from southeastern Alaska and southern & eastern British Columbia south into northern California, Oregon, and western Montana.  Also found in central Alberta and central Saskatchewan; from there, range extends from southern Manitoba, central Ontario, southern Quebec, and New Brunswick east to Nova Scotia; and south to Texas, the Gulf coast, and Florida (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: A large, tuftless owl; brownish-gray in color, with dark eyes.  Note diagnostic pattern to underparts, where upper breast is barred and lower breast and belly is streaked with a brown and white color pattern; compare with Spotted Owl.

Nest Habits: Nests in tree cavities, or in abandoned nests of crow, hawk, or squirrel.

Eggs: 2-4, usually 2-3; 50 mm.; white.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and both sexes care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 28-33 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 42 days old.


SECRETS:
This diurnal species also exhibits irruptive movements, occasionally wintering well south of its breeding range, most likely in response to substantial decline in prey availability.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in dense coniferous or hardwood forests, usually adjacent to meadows, where it forages; most typically found in woodlands consisting of pine, spruce, paper birch, or poplar (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from Alaska east across northern Yukon, northwestern and central Mackenzie, northern Manitoba, and northern Ontario to west-central Quebec; and south locally to the following areas: north-central Washington and south-central Oregon to the Sierra Nevada range in California; northern Idaho, western Montana, and western Wyoming; and southwestern & central Alberta, central Saskatchewan, southern Manitoba, the Great Lakes region, and south-central Ontario.  Winter range essentially encompasses breeding range; however, birds may occasionally winter south of their breeding range in the eastern and central parts of the continent (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Built like a battleship; this is the largest North American owl.  Dark grayish-white in color, the best field mark is perhaps the facial disk: note the gray and white concentric circles, yellow bill, and yellow eyes.

Nest Habits: Nests in trees, usually from 10-50 feet above the ground.  Nest is usually an abandoned nest of another bird species; also nests on stumps remaining from broken-top trees; and may even use artificial nest platforms built for it.

Eggs: 2-5, usually 2-4; 54 mm.; white.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and both sexes care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 30 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 21-28 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in forested areas and along woodland edge.

Distribution: Native to Mexico, Central America, and South America; considered accidental in Texas (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Compare with Barred and Spotted Owls; note that upperparts are dark brown and are not as strongly spotted or barred with white or buffy-white markings.  Scapulars are more boldly marked with white than back and rest of wing.  Underparts are whitish or buffy in color, with dark brown streaking; note that at sides of breast, dark brown mottling contrasts with the otherwise streaked appearance of the underparts.

Nest Habits: Nest is built in tree cavities; alternatively, may use abandoned nests of other bird species; usually two eggs are laid.


SECRETS:
Like some other birds of prey, the Northern Hawk Owl is an irruptive species, sometimes occurring further south in the winter than normal; however, its invasion cycle is unpredictable & not as frequent. It is diurnal and tame in its habits.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in coniferous or mixed coniferous-deciduous forests; also frequents forest edge, bogs, younger woodlands with scrubby undergrowth, and muskeg habitats (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from Alaska east across central Yukon, northwestern and central Mackenzie, southern Keewatin, northern Manitoba, northern Ontario, northern Quebec, and central Labrador to Newfoundland; and south to central British Columbia, northwestern Montana, west-central Alberta, central Saskatchewan, southern Manitoba, the Great Lakes region, southern Quebec, and New Brunswick.  Generally winters throughout the breeding range and, in some years, further south (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Although it is an owl, its falcon-shaped body explains why it has been named 'Hawk Owl'.  Note barred underparts, long tail, and yellow eyes.

Nest Habits: Nests in trees, usually from 10-40 feet above the ground.  Nest may be in tree cavity, in the hollow top of trees whose top has broken off, or in an abandoned crow or hawk nest.

Eggs: 3-9 or more, usually 5-7; 40 mm.; white.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and both sexes care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 25-30 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 25-35 days old.


SECRETS:
Chiefly diurnal in its habitats, especially early in the morning or just before dark. Also, often heard calling during the day.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in deciduous, coniferous, or mixed coniferous-deciduous forests (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Resident range encompasses the Pacific coast from southern Alaska south to southern California and Mexico; and extends eastward to west-central Alberta, central Montana, southern Arizona, and southern New Mexico (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: A tiny, tuftless owl; note two color phases (red and gray), streaked underparts, and black spots on nape.  Bill is pale yellowish in color; compare with Northern Saw-whet Owl.

Nest Habits: Nests in tree cavities, usually from 8-20 feet above the ground.

Eggs: 2-7, usually 3-4; 29 mm.; white.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and both sexes care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 28 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 27-28 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in scrubby habitats, in open woodlands, and in relatively open areas with scattered forest patches.

Distribution: Resident range includes southern Texas and south-central Arizona, south into Mexico (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: A tiny, tuftless owl.  Compare with Northern Pygmy-Owl, which it closely resembles; note streaked (rather than spotted) crown; where both species overlap in range, generally occurs at lower elevations.

Nest Habits: Nests in tree cavities, usually from 10-20 feet above the ground.

Eggs: 3-5, usually 3-4; 29 mm.; white.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs (however, mostly by female) and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 28 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 27-30 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in forested canyons, and in relatively open areas with scrub and scattered trees; usually in arid or semiarid environments.

Distribution: Resident in southern Baja California.  Elsewhere, summer breeding range extends from extreme southern Nevada, extreme southeastern California, central Arizona, southwestern New Mexico, and western and southern Texas south into Mexico.  Withdraws from northern portion of its range in the winter, when it is found in central Mexico and southern Texas (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: This is the tiniest North American owl.  Note tuftless appearance, yellow eyes, mottled, reddish-gray underparts, and grayish-brown upperparts with conspicuous white markings on wing coverts.

Nest Habits: Nests in abandoned woodpecker cavities of the saguaro cactus; but may also nest in tree cavities; nest is usually from 15-35 or more feet above the ground.

Eggs: 1-5, usually 2-3; 27 mm.; white.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and both sexes care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 24 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 28-33 days old.


SECRETS:
Diurnal in its habits; often perches on fence posts or dirt mounds, where the keen observer driving at 60 m.p.h. learns to distinguish it from ground squirrels or prairie dogs.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in grassland and arid scrub habitats (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from south-central British Columbia, southern Alberta, and southern Manitoba south to California, Baja California, and Mexico; and east to western Minnesota, northwestern Iowa, northwestern Missouri, Oklahoma, and western Texas.  Also breeds in southern Florida.  Winters throughout most of breeding range; however, populations found in the northern portions of its range in the Great Basin and Great Plains regions are migratory (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: This rather small, grayish-brown owl is best identified by its ground-dwelling habits and long legs.  Note also yellow eyes and lack of ear tufts.

Nest Habits: Usually breeds in colonies.  Utilizes burrows of prairie dogs or other species as its nest site.

Eggs: 6-11, usually 7-9; 31 mm.; white.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and both sexes care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 21-28 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 28 days old.


SECRETS:
The call of the Boreal Owl is one of the most haunting sounds you will ever hear; ironically, it resembles the winnowing of the Common Snipe; spend some time comparing the sounds of these two species.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in coniferous or mixed coniferous-deciduous woodlands; also frequents alder thickets and muskeg habitats (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from Alaska and central Yukon east across southern Mackenzie, northern Saskatchewan, northern Manitoba, northern Ontario, and central Quebec to Labrador; and south to northern British Columbia; the mountains of eastern Washington, northeastern Oregon, central Idaho, western Montana, and locally in Wyoming, Colorado, and New Mexico; and central Saskatchewan, southern Manitoba, and northern Minnesota east to southern Quebec and New Brunswick.  Generally winters throughout breeding range and, in some years, further south (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: This tiny, tuftless owl should be compared with the Northern Saw-whet Owl; facial disk is pale white, with a dark border; also note light-colored bill.

Nest Habits: Nests in tree cavities, usually from 10-20 feet above the ground.

Eggs: 3-10, usually 4-6; 32 mm.; white.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and both sexes care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 27-28 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 28-33 days old.


SECRETS:
In the winter, when you happen to find one Saw-whet Owl, start looking for more nearby: they often form loose communal winter roosts of two or more individuals.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in coniferous (especially cedar groves) or mixed coniferous-deciduous woodlands; also frequents alder thickets and dense brushy, second-growth habitats (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from southern Alaska, southern and northeastern British Columbia, and central Alberta east to southern Quebec, New Brunswick, and Nova Scotia; and south to south-central California (and locally in the Mexican highlands), western Texas, central Oklahoma, central Illinois, and central Indiana east to Maryland and the mountains of eastern Tennessee and western North Carolina.  In the winter, generally occurs throughout breeding range, but (in some years) also found in areas south of breeding range, including southern California, southern Arizona, the Gulf coast, and Florida (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: This tiny, rather tame, tuftless owl is streaked with reddish-brown on the underparts, and is dark reddish-brown on back and wings, with white spotting.  Compare with Boreal Owl; note dark bill and reddish-brown facial disk lacking dark border.

Nest Habits: Nests in tree cavities (or in man-made nest boxes), usually from 14-60 feet above the ground.

Eggs: 4-7, usually 5-6; 30 mm.; white.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs (however, mostly by female).  Incubation lasts approximately 26-28 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 27-34 days old.


SECRETS:
The key to finding Long-eared Owls is knowing when you're in the proper habitat: when the forest or woodland thicket gets so dense that you can barely walk through it, slow down, and intensively scan each tree for this hard-to-find species.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in dense coniferous or mixed coniferous-deciduous forests, and in wooded riparian areas; usually near open fields which are used for foraging.

Distribution: Breeding range extends from south-coastal British Columbia and southwestern Mackenzie east across northern Saskatchewan, northern Manitoba, northern Ontario, southern Quebec, and New Brunswick to Nova Scotia; and south locally to northwestern Baja California, southern Arizona, southern New Mexico, extreme northern Mexico, western Texas, Oklahoma, Missouri, central Illinois, and southern Indiana east to New York.  Northern populations are migratory; winter range extends from southern Canada south to northern Baja California, Mexico, southern Texas, and the Gulf coast east to Georgia (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Compare with Great Horned Owl: note comparatively longer ear tufts, bright chestnut of facial disk, overall slim-bodied appearance, and combination of streaks and barring on underparts.  Forms communal winter roosts; presence may oftentimes be disclosed by large amounts of white wash and owl pellets in suitable habitat.  Relies on its cryptic coloration to avoid detection; allows relative close approach before flying away to nearby thicket.

Nest Habits: Typically nests in abandoned squirrel, crow, hawk, or heron nest, usually from 10-40 feet above the ground.

Eggs: 3-10, usually 4-5; 40 mm.; white.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and both sexes care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 26-28 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 23-26 days old.


SECRETS:
Active at dawn, and at dusk; also sometimes at mid-day. Best way to find this species is to scan large open fields, meadows, or marshes just before dusk or at dawn.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in open areas, including Arctic tundra, grassy fields, meadows, or marshes.

Distribution: Breeding range extends from Alaska and northern Yukon east across northern Mackenzie, central Keewatin, southern Baffin Island, northern Quebec, and northern Labrador to Newfoundland; and south to central California, northern Nevada, Utah, northeastern Colorado, and Kansas east to western Kentucky; and from southern Indiana east to New Jersey.  Northern populations are migratory; winter range generally extends from southern Canada south to southern Baja California, Mexico, the Gulf coast, and Florida (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Often found when one is disturbed from its ground roost; note buffy wing patches at the wrist of the upper wing (seen in flight); when perched, small and indistinct ear tufts may also be seen.  Note streaked underparts.  Black wrist mark on underside of wing is reminiscent of Red-tailed Hawk's underwing pattern.  Flies haphazardly low over open fields in search of food.  Forms communal winter roosts, sometimes with a dozen or more owls being present in the same general area.

Nest Habits: May sometimes breed in small colonies.  Nests on the ground; nest is a simple depression which is lined with grasses and weeds.

Eggs: 4-14, usually 4-7; 39 mm.; white.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and both sexes care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 26-28 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 31-36 days old.


SECRETS:
Unlike Common Nighthawk, the Lesser Nighthawk is usually not seen flying high in the sky; it also prefers arid or desert environments, at lower elevations than the Common Nighthawk.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in deserts, scrub habitats, savanna or agricultural fields, and other open areas; usually in dry environments (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeds in the southwestern United States, Baja California, and Mexico; northern part of range is defined by central interior California, southern Nevada, southwestern Utah, central Arizona, central New Mexico, and south-central Texas.  Northern populations are migratory; generally winters from Baja California and central Mexico, southward (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Very similar to Common Nighthawk, however, easily told from that species by its call, an eerie, quavering trill.  Note mottled grayish-brown appearance on upperparts, buffy underparts which are lightly barred, throat color (white in males, and buffy in females), and white tail band (in male only).  Compare wing shape and white wing bar pattern to Common Nighthawk.

Nest Habits: Nests on the ground; no scrape is made -- eggs are simply laid on bare ground, usually a sandy or gravelly substrate.

Eggs: 2; 27 mm.; varies from light gray to light cream, or pinkish-white in color, with tan, gray, or lilac markings.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and both sexes care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 18-19 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 21 days old.


SECRETS:
In late August and throughout September, Common Nighthawks can be found migrating, sometimes in very large flocks of 150 or more birds.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in cities, grasslands and savannas, meadows, and a wide variety of other open or semi-open habitats (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Widespread.  Breeding range extends from southern Yukon and southern Mackenzie east across northern Saskatchewan, northern Manitoba, northern Ontario, central Quebec, and southern Labrador to Nova Scotia; and south to southern California, southern Arizona, Mexico, Texas, the Gulf coast, and southern Florida; migrates to South America for the winter (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Very falcon-like in its appearance; note long tail and long, pointed wings.  White wing bar in each wing is conspicuous in flight; flight style consists of very dynamic, animated, and uneven wing beats.  Note barred underparts; white throat in males (buffy in females), and white tail band in male.  Call, given more frequently than in American Woodcock, consists of a nasal 'peent'.  May be seen or heard during the day or at night.

Nest Habits: Nests on the ground; no scrape is made -- eggs are simply laid on bare substrate, which may vary from rocks, gravel, recently burned forestland, or even the flat gravel roofs of city buildings.

Eggs: 1-3, usually 2; 30 mm.; varies from cream-white to olive-buff, or greenish in color, with brown or gray markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs (however, mostly by female) and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 19 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 21 days old.


SECRETS:
Some authorities consider this species and the Common Nighthawk to be representatives of the same species; in fact, the Antillean Nighthawk was once classified as a subspecies of the Common Nighthawk.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in scrubby, second-growth habitats (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range includes the Florida Keys and southern Florida; migrates (presumably) to South America for the winter (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Compare to Common Nighthawk; underparts are buffier; also note the call, a 3-part 'pity-pit-pit'.

Nest Habits: Nests on the ground; no scrape is made -- eggs are simply laid on bare ground.

Eggs: 1-2, usually 1; 29 mm.; whitish-olive in color, with olive markings.

Incubation: Both sexes care for the young.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in forested areas, second-growth habitats, and scrubby areas; also frequents open and semi-open areas.

Distribution: This species is resident from southern Texas south into Mexico (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Tail is comparatively long, rounded at tip; compare with notched tail of nighthawks.  Also note white wing patches, somewhat more rounded wings, barred underparts.  At close range, light reddish-brown auricular patch may be visible.

Nest Habits: Nests on the ground; no scrape is made -- eggs are simply laid on bare ground.

Eggs: 2; 30 mm.; varies from salmon to pinkish-buff in color, with cinnamon-buff markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.


SECRETS:
The Common Poorwill is often cited as an example of birds (most notably hummingbirds, swifts, or nightjars) which can enter a state of torpor (like hibernation) when food is scarce or temperatures are cold.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in open areas, forested openings, and chaparral habitats; usually in rocky or gravelly terrain (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from southern interior British Columbia, Montana, and extreme southwestern  Saskatchewan, to central North Dakota; and south (through eastern Washington and central Oregon) to California, Baja California, Mexico, and central Texas; locally east to eastern Kansas.  Northern populations are migratory; generally winters in California and Arizona, south into Mexico (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Small size (in fact, it is the smallest member of the North American nightjars).  Note short, rounded wings, and rounded tail, the outer tail feathers of which are tipped with white.  Mottled grayish-brown plumage allows it to blend in to surrounding ground vegetation.

Nest Habits: Nests on the ground; usually eggs are simply laid on bare ground; alternatively, a simple scrape may be made.

Eggs: 2; 26 mm.; varies from pale cream to pink, or white in color.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.


SECRETS:
Although it is mostly a bird of eastern forests, the Chuck-will's-widow has been documented as far west as California and Nevada (A.O.U. 1998).

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in deciduous and pine-oak forested habitats; also frequents open woodlands or scrub habitats (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from eastern Kansas, southern Iowa, central Illinois, northwestern Indiana, extreme southern Ontario, and southern Ohio east to southern New York; and south to Texas, the Gulf coast, and Florida.  Some birds winter in southern Florida; however, most individuals migrate to Mexico, Central America, or South America for the winter (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Mottled grayish-brown or buffy-brown appearance; larger than other Caprimulgids, the Chuck-will's-widow  is characterized by a long tail and rounded wings; note dark breast feathers.  Best told by its voice, a rather haunting 'chuck-will's-widow'.

Nest Habits: Nests on the ground; no scrape is made -- eggs are simply laid on the forest floor, usually amongst leaves.

Eggs: 2; 37 mm.; pinkish-cream or buff in color, with brown, lavender, or gray markings.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and cares for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 20 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 17 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in brushy woodlands and scrub habitats, usually in dry or semiarid environments.

Distribution: This species is resident in southern Arizona and Mexico (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Similar to Whip-poor-will, but contains tan or buffy neck collar which is most visible at base of nape.  Song is notably different from Whip-poor-will.

Nest Habits: Nests on the ground; no scrape is made -- eggs are simply laid on the ground.

Eggs: Little information is known.

Incubation: Little information is known.


SECRETS:
The two disjunct distributional ranges of this species in North America correspond to two different subspecies.  As its Latin name implies, this is a very vocal bird, sometimes depriving people of their sleep.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in deciduous and pine-oak forested habitats; also frequents open woodlands (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: In the east, breeding range extends from south-central Saskatchewan and southern Manitoba east across central Ontario, southern Quebec, and central New Brunswick to Nova Scotia; and south to northeastern Texas, Arkansas, and northern Mississippi east to South Carolina; in the west, breeds locally in southern California, and from southern Nevada, northern Arizona, central New Mexico, and western Texas south into Mexico.  Generally winters in Mexico northward to southern Texas, and along the Gulf coast north to east-central South Carolina (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Rounded tail has white corner patches in the male, and limited, buffy tips to outer tail feathers in the female.  Note mottled grayish-brown appearance, rounded wings, and dark throat.  Song, a loud 'whip-poor-will', is easily learned.

Nest Habits: Nests on the ground; no scrape is made -- eggs are simply laid on the forest floor.

Eggs: 2; 30 mm.; white or creamy-white in color, with brown or gray markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 19-20 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 20 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in a variety of woodland and open forest habitats (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Native to Asia; considered accidental in Alaska (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Mottled plumage is predominantly gray in color, unlike other members of the Nightjar family that are native to North America.  Note black chin, white throat, and white color pattern in wings and tail of the male; females are similar, but colors are not as bright.

Nest Habits: Does not breed in North America.


SECRETS:
This is not a common species, and sometimes other swifts are misidentified as this species. When looking at swifts, remember that back-lighting (from the sky), especially on gray or cloudy days, may make other species of swifts appear dark.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in forests and open areas, usually in mountainous regions; requires rock crevice or cave for nest site (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Locally distributed throughout its breeding range, which extends from southeastern Alaska, south-central British Columbia, and southwestern Alberta south through the Pacific coast states to southern California; also in the Rocky Mountain states south to southeastern Arizona, north-central New Mexico, and Mexico.  Presumably migrates to South America for the winter (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: A rather large swift; note completely dark underparts, which lack the grayish-white appearance of Chimney or Vaux's Swifts.  Tail is forked.

Nest Habits: Breeds in small colonies.  Typically nests in a cave, or in rock crevice or ledge against a cliff or canyon wall; nest consists of a cup-shaped structure built from mud, mosses, and algae.

Eggs: 1; 29 mm.; white.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 24-27 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 45-49 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in foothill, lowland, and montane forests (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Native to Mexico and South America; considered accidental in Texas and Florida; also recorded from California and Michigan (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Large size, forked tail, dark overall color.  Similar in appearance to Black Swift, but note bold white collar on throat.

Nest Habits: Does not breed in North America.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in forested habitats; also frequents more open environments in the winter and in migration (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Native to Asia, India, and Australia; considered to be a casual visitor to the Aleutian Islands (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: A noticeably large swift; note white on throat and on forehead.  Undertail coverts and tertial feathers are also white.  Lower back exhibits a pale white patch.

Nest Habits: Does not breed in North America.


SECRETS:
Swifts, with their stiffly-held wings, appear to flap their wings alternately (rather than in unison) when flying. Although this is just an optical illusion, it is one of the best ways to distinguish swifts from swallows in flight.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in forested and open areas, but especially in cities and towns where it relies on chimneys to provide nest and roost sites.

Distribution: Primarily in eastern North America.  Breeding range extends from east-central Saskatchewan and southern Manitoba east across central Ontario, southern Quebec, and New Brunswick to Nova Scotia and Newfoundland; and south to Texas, the Gulf coast, and Florida; breeding range extends locally west to southeastern Wyoming and eastern Colorado.  It has bred at least once in southern California.  Migrates to South America for the winter (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: This rather drab-colored swift is characterized by its dark grayish appearance, with a grayish-white breast and short, square-tipped tail.  Its twittering calls are frequently heard in spring migration and throughout the breeding season.  One of the most anticipated events of the fall migration is the large concentrations of Chimney Swifts which form tornado-like flocks at dusk as they circle into a large chimney; as many as 10,000 birds have been observed at one time performing this behavior.

Nest Habits: Nest is usually placed in some form of sheltered area, such as a large tree cavity or chimney.  Nest is built from small twigs, which are joined together and applied to wall of nest site with the bird's saliva.

Eggs: 2-7, usually 4-5; 20 mm.; white.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 19-21 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 28-30 days old.


SECRETS:
Although concentrations of this species in migration are not as spectacular as in Chimney Swift, it is still fun to see 1 or several Vaux's Swifts migrating low over lakes or hilly ridge-tops during the spring & fall migration periods.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in forested and open areas, including coniferous and mixed coniferous-deciduous forests (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: The western counterpart to the Chimney Swift of eastern North America.  Breeding range extends from southeastern Alaska, southern British Columbia, northern Idaho, and western Montana south to central California; also breeds locally in Mexico.  Migrates to Mexico, Central America, and South America for the winter (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: This rather drab-colored swift is characterized by its dark grayish appearance, with a grayish-white breast and short, square-tipped tail.  Breast is usually paler than in Chimney Swift; also note slightly smaller size.

Nest Habits: Nest is usually placed in some form of sheltered area, such as a large tree cavity or chimney; unlike the Chimney Swift, however, its preference is for a tree cavity.  Nest is built from small twigs and pine needles, which are joined together and applied to wall of nest site with the bird's saliva.

Eggs: 3-7, usually 4-5; 18 mm.; white.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 18-20 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 28 days old.


SECRETS:
In urban areas, sometimes an easy place to go to look for this species includes major highway or interstate overpasses; these swifts have adapted to nesting on the underside of these structures.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in open areas, including mountainous terrain, areas near cliffs or canyons, and in urban or suburban habitats (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from south-central British Columbia, Idaho, Montana, and southwestern South Dakota south to California, Baja California, Mexico, central New Mexico, and western Texas; breeding range extends locally east to western Nebraska.  Northern populations are migratory; generally winters from central California, central Arizona, and southern New Mexico southwards throughout its breeding range (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Although the upperparts are dark, the underside of this swift exhibits a contrasting black-and-white pattern, including white throat; note also forked tail.  Twittering call may sometimes be heard in the middle of the night; once learned, it is easy to use this attribute alone to identify this species.

Nest Habits: Nest is usually placed in rock crevice of cliff or canyon wall.  Nest is built from feathers and grasses, which are joined together and applied to wall of nest site with the bird's saliva.

Eggs: 3-6, usually 4-5; 21 mm.; white.

Incubation: Both sexes are thought to care for the young.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in wet grasslands and second-growth habitats, usually near palm trees (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Native to Cuba and Jamaica; considered accidental in the Florida Keys (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Note small size, dark upperparts, and white rump.  Black band across chest and black on sides of breast contrast with adjacent areas of white.  Compare to White-throated Swift.

Nest Habits: Does not breed in North America.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in a wide diversity of habitats; uses tree cavities or cliff walls for nest sites.

Distribution: Native to Europe, Asia, and Africa; considered accidental in Alaska (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Overall, dark grayish-brown, with forked tail, whitish chin, and (as seen in flight) dark wing linings.

Nest Habits: Does not breed in North America.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in a wide diversity of habitats; uses tree cavities, caves, or cliff walls for nest sites.

Distribution: Native to Asia and Australia; occasionally observed in the Aleutian Islands, usually during the summer and fall seasons (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Grayish in color, with deeply forked tail, whitish chin, throat, and upper breast, and dark belly.  In flight, look for the conspicuous white rump.

Nest Habits: Does not breed in North America.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in coniferous, oak, and mixed pine-oak forests; also frequents forest edge habitats.

Distribution: Native to central Mexico, south to Central America and South America; occasionally found north to Texas, sometimes to Arkansas; accidental further north (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Overall, a striking dark green color, with violet-colored auricular patch, for which it is named.  Male also has violet hue on breast; female is not as bright, and may lack violet coloring on breast.  Bill slightly decurved.

Nest Habits: Does not breed in the United States.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in small openings in the forest, along woodland edge, and among scattered trees in semi-open areas.

Distribution: Native to central Mexico, south to Central America and South America; accidental in southern Texas (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Overall, a striking dark green color, with purplish tail and violet hue to throat and breast.  Female's breast is dark green with a white border down sides; note dark tail with a white tip.

Nest Habits: Does not breed in the United States.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in scrubby habitats and brushy woodlands or areas with scattered trees, usually in semi-dry to arid environments.

Distribution: Breeding range extends from southeastern Arizona, southwestern New Mexico, and western Texas south into Mexico.  Northern populations are migratory; generally winters from Mexico south throughout its breeding range (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Dark tail with white undertail coverts; note dark green upperparts.  Male has violet-blue to green underparts; female is pale white below, with greenish sides.  Bill has dark tip, reddish-orange at base.

Nest Habits: Nests in trees or shrubs, usually up to 4-7 or more feet above the ground.  Nest is a cup-shaped structure built from grasses and lined with leaves, bark, and plant down.

Eggs: 2; 13 mm.; white.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and care for the young.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in scrubby habitats and brushy woodlands, usually in semi-dry to arid environments.

Distribution: This hummingbird is resident in southern Baja California; occasionally may range north to California, where it is considered accidental (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Buffy-orange underparts, rufous-green tail, and green upperparts.  Note white eyebrow and black eye patch.  Reddish-orange bill with dark tip.

Nest Habits: Nests in trees, usually up to 4-12 feet above the ground.  Nest is built from seeds, plant down, spider's silk, lichens, and other materials.

Eggs: 2; pale white.

Incubation: Little information is known.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in forested areas (including pine or pine-oak forests) and in woodland clearings.

Distribution: Primarily a resident species from southern Arizona south into Mexico and Central America; may also breed in mountains of southwestern New Mexico.  Withdraws from northern portion of range in winter (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Dark tail with green central tail feathers; note broad white eye stripe and black ear patch.  Upperparts are green.  Both male and female have varying amounts of green on underparts; crown and chin of male are darker than rest of body feathers.  Bill is short and orange at base; dark at tip.

Nest Habits: Nests in trees or shrubs, usually up to 5-20 feet above the ground.  Nest is a cup-shaped structure built from moss, plant down, pine needles, and lichens; also includes spider's silk.

Eggs: 2; 12 mm.; white.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and cares for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 14-16 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 23-26 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in woodlands, woodland edge, woodland clearings, and in scrubby habitats.

Distribution: Primarily a resident species from southeastern Arizona south into Mexico and Central America (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Dark, rufous-brown wings and tail.  Underside of wings are lined with rufous coloration.  Rest of plumage is predominantly green; bill is light reddish in color with dark tip.

Nest Habits: Nests in trees, usually up to 17-25 feet above the ground.  Nest is a cup-shaped structure built from plant down, lichens, grass, and spider's silk.

Eggs: probably 2; 14 mm.; white.

Incubation: It is thought that female incubates the eggs and cares for the young.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in woodlands and along woodland edge.

Distribution: Native to Mexico and Central America; considered accidental in Arizona and New Mexico (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Forehead, crown, and upperparts are bright green in color; tail is rufous-green (more rufous than green), and underparts are cinnamon in color.  Note reddish-orange bill with dark tip.

Nest Habits: Does not breed in the United States.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in wooded areas, along woodland edge, and in brushy scrub habitat.

Distribution: Although this species is resident in southern Texas, Mexico, and Central America, it is regularly found in the winter in southern Louisiana, southern Mississippi, and northwestern Florida (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Dark wings and reddish-brown tail, greenish head and chest, reddish-orange bill with dark tip.  Note buff-colored belly; back is greenish with a buffy wash.

Nest Habits: Nests in trees or shrubs, usually up to 3-8 feet above the ground.  Nest is a cup-shaped structure built from plant fibers, cattle hair, lichens, and spider's silk.

Eggs: 2; 13 mm.; white.

Incubation: It is thought that the female incubates the eggs and care for the young.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in relatively open areas with scattered trees and shrubs, riparian woodlands, or in more scrubby habitats; usually in semi-dry or arid environments.

Distribution: This species is resident in southeastern Arizona and southwestern New Mexico, southward into Mexico; withdraws from northern part of range in winter (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Mostly white below, reddish-orange bill with dark tip, greenish wings, back, and tail.  Note the violet-colored crown, for which this bird is named.

Nest Habits: Nests in trees, usually up to 6-40 feet above the ground.  Nest is a cup-shaped structure built from plant down, spider's silk, and lichens.

Eggs: 2; 14 mm.; white.

Incubation: It is thought that female incubates the eggs and cares for the young.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in woodlands (usually oak and pine-oak forests) and along woodland edge or in clearings.

Distribution: Breeding range extends from southeastern Arizona and western Texas south into Mexico; withdraws from northern part of range in winter (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Bluish tail, outermost tail feathers tipped with white.  Note also the gray underparts, greenish crown and back, and (in male) the blue throat.  White eye stripe is accompanied by white whisker streak below the eye.

Nest Habits: Nests on small plants or ferns, or on the sides of man-made structures such as houses, bridges, or towers; usually up to 1-30 feet above the ground.  Nest is a cup-shaped structure built from plant down, mosses, and spider's silk.

Eggs: 1-2, usually 2; 15 mm.; white.

Incubation: It is thought that female incubates the eggs and cares for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 17-18 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 24-29 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in woodlands (usually pine-evergreen and pine-oak forests) and along woodland edge or in clearings; also frequents open farmlands and grasslands in the desert during migration (Howell and Webb 1995).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from southeastern Arizona, southwestern New Mexico, and western Texas south into Mexico and Central America; withdraws from northern part of range in winter (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Brilliant green throat, blackish eye patch with small white dot above eye, greenish-black chest, dark greenish head with violet crown.  Female's colors are duller; also does not have violet-colored crown.

Nest Habits: Nests in trees or shrubs, usually up to 10-55 feet above the ground.  Nest is a cup-shaped structure built from plant down, plant fibers, lichens, and spider's silk.

Eggs: 2; 15 mm.; white.

Incubation: It is thought that female incubates the eggs and cares for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 16 days.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found along forest edge or in more open areas with scattered trees and shrubs, usually in semi-dry or arid environments (Howell and Webb 1995).

Distribution: Native to Mexico and Central America; considered a casual visitor to southeastern Arizona; there is at least one report from New Mexico (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Long bill.  Throat is green, with metallic pinkish-red colors on side of throat; underparts white; narrow blackish eye patch, with white dot behind the eye and white line separating auricular area from throat.  Greenish-bronze back and tail.  On perched bird, look for white tufts of feathers on flanks.

Nest Habits: Does not breed in the United States.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in arid or semiarid scrubby habitats, brushy woodlands, or in relatively open areas with scattered trees and shrubs (Howell and Webb 1995).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from southern Arizona, southwestern New Mexico, and western Texas south into Mexico; withdraws from northern part of range in winter (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Note rather long, decurved bill.  In male, tail is dark and noticeably forked, with pointed tips to the feathers; also note greenish upperparts and purplish throat.  Females and immatures have rounded tail; tail is mostly green, with some rufous at base and outermost tail feathers tipped with white; note buffy underparts and buffy eye stripe above greenish eye line.

Nest Habits: Nests in shrubs, usually up to 4-6 feet above the ground.  Nest is a cup-shaped structure built from plant fibers, blossoms, lichens, seeds, and spider's silk.

Eggs: 2; 13 mm.; white.

Incubation: It is thought that female incubates the eggs and cares for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 15-16 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 21-24 days old.


SECRETS:
This is our only common & widespread hummingbird of eastern N. America; however, the careful observer will always be on the lookout during the fall & winter, for it's at that time that vagrant hummers from the west may appear in the east.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in wooded areas, second-growth habitats, or in more open areas with scattered trees, such as parks.

Distribution: Breeding range extends east of the Rocky Mountains, from central Alberta and central Saskatchewan; and from southern Manitoba south to Texas and the Gulf coast, and east to Nova Scotia, Newfoundland, and Florida.  Migrates to Mexico and Central America for the winter; some birds overwinter in the southeastern United States (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Greenish crown, back, and wings; in male, note ruby-red throat.  Compare with Black-chinned Hummingbird.

Nest Habits: Nests in trees, usually up to 5-20 or more feet above the ground.  Nest is a cup-shaped structure built from plant down, leaves, lichens, and spider's silk.

Eggs: 2; 13 mm.; white.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and cares for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 11-14 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 14-28 days old.


SECRETS:
Although most birds migrate to Mexico for the winter, this close relative of the Ruby-throated Hummingbird may also winter in southern Texas and along the Gulf coast to Florida; study all wintering hummers in the southeast U.S. closely!

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Usually found in arid environments, including desert washes, scrub, or chaparral habitats; also frequents open woodlands, riparian woodlands, and parks or gardens (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from south-central British Columbia, Washington, Idaho, and northwestern Montana south (and east) to northern Baja California, northern Mexico, and southern Texas.  Migrates to Mexico for the winter (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Compare with Ruby-throated Hummingbird.  Note black throat; in good viewing conditions, violet or purplish strip of feathers appears below black throat.

Nest Habits: Nests in trees, usually up to 4-8 or more feet above the ground.  Nest is a cup-shaped structure built from plant down, leaves, and spider's silk.

Eggs: 1-3, usually 2; 13 mm.; white.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and cares for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 13-16 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 21 days old.


SECRETS:
Unlike most hummingbirds, this species overwinters in the United States throughout most of its breeding range; it takes advantage of the mild weather of the Pacific coastal states.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in a wide diversity of habitats, ranging from open woodlands to brushy or chaparral habitats; common in city parks and gardens, and also found in woodlands at higher elevations.

Distribution: This species is predominantly resident along the Pacific slope of North America, from southwestern British Columbia south to northern Baja California and southwestern Arizona.  Winter range expands slightly northward to central British Columbia and southward to central Baja California and Mexico; also eastward into southern Arizona and New Mexico (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Upperparts greenish in color, dusky white below with greenish wash.  Note red throat and crown in male.  Compare females with females of Costa's and Black-chinned Hummingbirds.  Learn the squeaky, insect-like song; at first, it is easily overlooked, but once learned it becomes a valuable aid in identification of these birds, even at great distances.

Nest Habits: Nests in trees or shrubs, usually up to 2-30 feet above the ground.  Nest is a cup-shaped structure built from plant down and spider's silk.

Eggs: 1-3, usually 2; 13 mm.; white.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and cares for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 14-19 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 18-23 days old.


SECRETS:
Call notes are a series of 'tinks'; when heard, they are suggestive of the calls of the Bushtit.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in habitats typical of arid or desert environments, including brushy foothills and chaparral; also frequents mountain slopes, meadows, and gardens (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from central California, southern Nevada, and southwestern Utah south to southern Baja California, Mexico, southern Arizona, and southwestern New Mexico.  Winter range encompasses southern California and southern Arizona south into Mexico (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Purple-violet head and throat of male includes two elongated extensions running down the sides of the neck; also note greenish back and dull white underparts.  Female is told by small size, generally white throat, greenish upperparts, and white belly and breast.

Nest Habits: Nests in trees, usually up to 1-9 or more feet above the ground.  Nest is a cup-shaped structure built from lichens, leaves, plant down, bark, and spider's silk.

Eggs: 2; 12 mm.; white.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and cares for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 15-18 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 20-23 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in scrubby second-growth and secondary forest habitats, and in lowland evergreen forests (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Native to the Bahama Islands; considered a casual visitor to southern Florida (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Combination of cinnamon wash on underparts, white breast band, and greenish upperparts are found on both male and female.  Male has purplish-red throat.  Although there is some cinnamon coloration in the tail, this species is easily separated from Allen's Hummingbird.

Nest Habits: Does not breed in the United States.


SECRETS:
The small size of hummingbirds is often talked about, but that is especially true for this species, which is the smallest North American nesting bird north of Mexico.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in meadows, and in shrubby forests and thickets, usually in montane environments; also frequents chaparral and lowland brushy areas during migration and in the winter (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from central interior British Columbia and west-central Alberta south through the Pacific coast states and Nevada to northern Baja California; also east to western Montana, western Wyoming, and into Utah.  Migrates to Mexico for the winter, but may also be found at this time in small numbers along the Gulf coast (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Streaked appearance to the purplish throat of the male is diagnostic of this species.  Note light cinnamon wash on sides and flanks of female.  Small size is also useful in identifying this species.  Compare female with Allen's and Rufous Hummingbirds.

Nest Habits: Nests in trees or shrubs, usually up to 2-70 feet above the ground.  Nest is a cup-shaped structure built from lichens, mosses, plant fibers, bark, and spider's silk.

Eggs: 2; 12 mm.; white.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and cares for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 15-16 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 18-23 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in evergreen and pine-oak forested habitats; also frequents adjacent clearings and more shrubby environments (A.O.U. 1998; Howell and Webb 1995).

Distribution: Native to Mexico; considered accidental in Arizona (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Compare elongated pattern of rosy-pink throat to Costa's Hummingbird; note also the cinnamon coloration in the tail.  Female has buffy sides.

Nest Habits: Little information is known.


SECRETS:
Like the Allen's and Rufous Hummingbirds, this species is often heard before it is seen: in flight, wing beats of male produce a high-pitched trill and a noisy humming sound.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in open pine, pine-oak, and pinyon-juniper woodlands; also frequents thickets and more brushy habitats (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends through montane regions of north-central Idaho, southwestern Montana, and northern Wyoming south to southeastern California, Mexico, and western Texas; migrates to Mexico for the winter (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Bright green upperparts.  Male has dark red throat; underparts are white, and sides of chest are green.  Note light cinnamon wash on sides and flanks of female.

Nest Habits: Nests in trees, usually up to 4-15 or more feet above the ground.  Nest is a cup-shaped structure built from lichens, leaves, bark, plant down, and spider's silk.

Eggs: 2; 13 mm.; white.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and cares for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 14-17 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 21-26 days old.


SECRETS:
The presence of this species is revealed by the loud hum of its wings as it flies nearby. Sightings of some Selasphorus hummers must remained unidentified, however, because of the close similarity between Rufous & Allen's Hummingbirds.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found along the edge of coniferous forests and in second-growth habitats, including thickets and brushy areas; also frequents meadows and pine-oak woodlands (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from southern Alaska and southern Yukon south through British Columbia, west-central Alberta, and western Montana to northwestern California, Oregon, central Idaho, and western Wyoming.  Migrates to Mexico for the winter, but also found regularly in winter along the Gulf coast (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Male is told by predominantly rufous color over most of body, including head and back; however, some males may have a variable amount of green speckling on the back -- compare with Allen's Hummingbird.  Females of this species are not separable in the field from female Allen's Hummingbird, except perhaps in mid-summer in areas where breeding range does not overlap.

Nest Habits: May breed in loose colonies.  Nests in trees, usually up to 5-50 feet above the ground.  Nest is a cup-shaped structure built from lichens, plant down, mosses, bark, and spider's silk.

Eggs: 1-3, usually 2; 13 mm.; white.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and cares for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 12-14 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 20 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in a variety of habitats ranging from residential areas and riparian woodlands, to chaparral and open oak woodlands (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from southwestern Oregon south along the Pacific coast to southern California.  Migrates to Mexico for the winter; however, some birds are resident on the Channel Islands and along the coast in southern California (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Male is told by combination of rufous sides and tail, and green back and crown; also note white breast.  Compare with Rufous Hummingbird, as some males of that species have a variable amount of green speckling on the back and may resemble Allen's.  Females of this species are not separable in the field from female Rufous Hummingbird, except perhaps in mid-summer in areas where breeding range does not overlap.

Nest Habits: Nests in trees, shrubs, or in vines, usually up to 1-90 feet above the ground.  Nest is a cup-shaped structure built from lichens, leaves, plant down, seeds, and spider's silk.

Eggs: 2; 13 mm.; white.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and cares for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 17-22 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 22-25 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Usually found in canyons, where it frequents pine, pine-oak, and pine-evergreen forests (Howell and Webb 1995).

Distribution: Native to Mexico; considered to be rare at Ramsey Canyon in southern Arizona and a casual visitor to other parts of southern Arizona (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Larger size, dark gray bill, and predominantly greenish color on back and wings separate this species from the Elegant Trogon.

Nest Habits: Little information is available.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in forested areas, including riparian woodlands and pine-oak forests (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: This species is resident in southeastern Arizona and southwestern New Mexico south through Mexico to Central America; some withdrawal from extreme northerly populations occurs in the winter (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Note red belly and undertail coverts.  Green on upper breast, head, and back of male is replaced by brownish-gray in the female.  Compare with Eared Trogon; told from that species by smaller size and yellowish bill.

Nest Habits: Nests in cavities, usually up to 12-40 feet above the ground.  Nest is lined with straw, mosses, wool, and other materials.

Eggs: 2-4, usually 3-4; 29 mm.; white to bluish-white in color.

Incubation: Little information is known.


SECRETS:
The flight of the kingfisher is easy to recognize, even from a considerable distance; as Roger Tory Peterson once said, its erratic wing beats make it appear it is changing gear in mid-flight.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in wooded riparian areas along rivers, streams, and lakes; sometimes in more open situations bordering water.

Distribution: Breeding range extends from Alaska and central Yukon east across western and south-central Mackenzie, northern Saskatchewan, central Manitoba, northern Ontario, and central Quebec to Newfoundland; and south to southern California, southern Arizona, southern New Mexico, the Gulf coast (including southern Texas), and Florida.  Northern populations are migratory; generally winters from southeastern Alaska, southern British Columbia, and the northern United States south into Mexico (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Massive bill and big-headed appearance make the Belted Kingfisher easy to identify.  Note mostly white underparts, and reddish-orange belly band (female only).  Like a tern, it dives headfirst into water to catch fish.  Loud, rattling call is sometimes imitated by mockingbirds.

Nest Habits: Nests in horizontal burrows, which it digs in dirt bank, usually along water course.  Burrow may be up to 15 feet deep; nest may be lined with fish scales and bones.

Eggs: 5-8, usually 6-7; 34 mm.; white.

Incubation: It is thought that both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 17-22 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 23 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found along aquatic habitats such as rivers, lakes, and marshes.

Distribution: This species is resident in southern Texas southward into Mexico (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Similar to Belted Kingfisher, but note larger size and the reddish-orange underparts; female has blue breast band above narrower white breast band.

Nest Habits: Nests in horizontal burrows, which it digs in dirt bank, usually along water course.  Burrow may be up to 8 feet deep.

Eggs: 3-6, usually 4-5; 44 mm.; white.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs.  Young are capable of flight when they are about 34-35 days old.


SECRETS:
This species & the Ringed Kingfisher are 2 species which are often sought by birders who make the eventual pilgrimage that most birders take to southern Texas or SE Arizona; in some places, all 3 kingfisher species may be found.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found along shaded aquatic habitats such as rivers, lakes, and marshes.

Distribution: This species is resident in southern Arizona and central Texas south into Mexico (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: This small kingfisher is easily recognized by its contrasting green and white colors; male has reddish-orange breast.  Like other kingfishers, it has a large bill relative to its body size.

Nest Habits: Nests in horizontal burrows, which it digs in dirt bank, usually along water course.  Burrow may be up to 3 feet deep; nest may sometimes be lined with fish scales and bones.

Eggs: 3-6, usually 5; 25 mm.; white.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 19-21 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 22-26 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in various open and partly open habitats (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Native to Europe, Asia, Africa, and India; considered accidental in western Alaska (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Brilliantly colored with tan, black, and white; note large crest and long, slightly decurved bill.

Nest Habits: Does not breed in North America.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in open woodland and second growth habitats (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Native to Europe, Asia, Africa, and India; considered accidental in Alaska (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Medium-sized woodpecker, which looks more like a large creeper.  Note mottled, gray-brown plumage, and banded tail.  A dark stripe runs the length of the back, from the crown to the rump.

Nest Habits: Does not breed in North America.


SECRETS:
Combination of large size, habit of 'hawking' for insects (i.e., flying into the air to catch food), & dark body plumage suggest a fly-catching crow; this, of course, is so unusual, that it actually makes it easy to identify this species.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in open forests and woodlands, in riparian woodlands, and in oak-savanna habitats.

Distribution: Breeding range extends from the Pacific coast (southern British Columbia south to south-central California) east to south-central Alberta, Montana, southwestern South Dakota, northwestern Nebraska, southern Colorado, and southern New Mexico.  Northern populations are migratory; generally winters from southern British Columbia, southern Idaho, and western Montana south through its breeding range to northern Baja California, Mexico, and western Texas (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: A large, dark woodpecker; under good viewing conditions, pinkish belly feathers are visible.  Also note dirty white upper breast and nape collar; and dark reddish feathers on face, which contrast with dark greenish head.

Nest Habits: Nests in cavity of snag or live tree, usually up to 4-150 or more feet above the ground.

Eggs: 4-9, usually 6-7; 26 mm.; white.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 13-14 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 28-34 days old.


SECRETS:
One of the preferred habitats of the Red-headed Woodpecker in the Mississippi River Valley consists of flooded lowland forests; these habitats often result from the activity of beavers who build dams on nearby streams or rivers.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in forested areas, open woodlands, and flooded lowland forests; also frequents parks and semi-urban environments with scattered trees.

Distribution: Breeding range extends from the Atlantic coast (New England states south to Florida) west to southern Saskatchewan, central Montana, eastern Wyoming, eastern Colorado, and central New Mexico; withdraws from the northern portion of its breeding range in the winter (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Dark wings and tail, red head, white underparts, and white wing patches make this bird extremely beautiful, as well as easy to identify.

Nest Habits: Usually nests in cavity of snag or live tree, usually up to 5-80 feet above the ground.

Eggs: 3-7, usually 4-5; 25 mm.; white.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 12-13 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 27-30 days old.


SECRETS:
The presence of this species is revealed to the observant eye by the numerous holes it drills into trees; into these holes it places acorns that it will feed on in the winter. Over the years, many thousands of holes will appear in 1 tree.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in oak woodlands.

Distribution: Along the west coast, this species is resident from central southern Washington and northwestern Oregon south through California to southern Baja California; further inland, the species is found from southern Utah, Arizona, New Mexico, and western Texas south into Mexico (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Bright eyes, white face, dark head, reddish crown, and black-and-white pattern in wings and tail give the Acorn Woodpecker a comical, if not distinctly pied appearance.

Nest Habits: May form communal or social groups, in which immatures (from previous nestings) and other adults help out in nest building and brood rearing.  Usually nests in cavity of snag or live tree, usually up to 12-60 feet above the ground.

Eggs: May exceed 7, usually 3-7; 25 mm.; white.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 11-12 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 30-32 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in desert, scrub, and second-growth habitats, usually with scattered trees (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: This woodpecker is resident from southeastern California, extreme southern Nevada, central Arizona, and southwestern New Mexico south into Baja California and Mexico (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Ladder-backed, black-and-white barring on wings and back, grayish-white underparts and head.  Male has red crown patch.

Nest Habits: Usually nests in cavity of cactus or tree, usually up to 15-25 or more feet above the ground.

Eggs: 3-5, usually 3-4; 25 mm.; white.

Incubation: It is thought that both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 12-14 days.


SECRETS:
The Red-bellied Woodpecker actually does have a red belly; however, it is often difficult to see in the field.  Reddish coloration of belly is sometimes revealed when underparts of bird are exposed while it is feeding on suet feeder.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in wooded areas; also frequents parks, residential areas, and suburban habitats.

Distribution: This species is resident from the east coast (central New York and Massachusetts south to Florida) west to southeastern North Dakota, eastern South Dakota, central Nebraska, northeastern Colorado, western Oklahoma, and north-central Texas (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Black-and-white barring on back and wings; grayish-white underparts.  Crown, forehead, and nape of neck are red in male; rear of crown and nape of neck are red in female.  Compare call to call of Red-headed Woodpecker.

Nest Habits: Usually nests in cavity of snag, generally up to 5-40 or more feet above the ground.

Eggs: 3-8, usually 4-5; 25 mm.; white.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 12-14 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 24-27 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in scrubby woodlands and in other open or semi-open forested habitats with scattered trees (Howell and Webb 1995).

Distribution: This species is resident from southwestern Oklahoma and north-central Texas south into Mexico and Central America (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Black-and-white barring on back and wings; grayish-white underparts.  In male, reddish crown contrasts with golden nape patch; female is similar, but lacks reddish crown feathers.  Note yellow at base of upper mandible.

Nest Habits: Usually nests in cavity of snag or live tree, generally up to 3-25 or more feet above the ground.

Eggs: 4-7, usually 4-5; 26 mm.; white.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 12-14 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 30 days old.


SECRETS:
The erratic, uneven tapping and the plaintive, cat-like call note are diagnostic of this species; formerly classified with Red-naped and Red-breasted Sapsuckers as one species. Sapsuckers drill rows of evenly spaced holes in trees.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in deciduous and mixed deciduous-coniferous forests; and in more open situations such as parks and suburbs with scattered trees (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from extreme east-central Alaska and southwestern Yukon east across southwestern Mackenzie, northern Saskatchewan, and central Manitoba east to southern Labrador and central Newfoundland; and south to northeastern British Columbia, south-central Alberta, southeastern Saskatchewan, eastern South Dakota, and northern Iowa east to western Massachusetts and New Hampshire, and locally south to eastern Tennessee and western North Carolina in the Appalachian Mountains.  Generally winters from Mexico, Texas, the Gulf coast, and Florida north to Missouri and Illinois, and east to southern New England (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Note yellowish underparts, with black streaking along sides; white vertical bar on wing, and the black and white pattern to head, wings, and back.  Chin and forehead are red in male, forehead only in female.

Nest Habits: Usually nests in cavity of snag or live tree, generally up to 10-45 feet above the ground.

Eggs: 3-7, usually 5-6; 24 mm.; white.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 12-13 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 25-29 days old.


SECRETS:
The erratic, uneven tapping and the plaintive, cat-like call note are diagnostic of this species; formerly classified with Yellow-bellied and Red-breasted Sapsuckers as one species. Sapsuckers drill rows of evenly spaced holes in trees.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in coniferous and coniferous-aspen forests, also in montane riparian woodlands; during migration and winter, frequents a wide diversity of wooded and semi-wooded environments, including parks, suburban areas, tree orchards, etc. (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range is closely associated with the Rocky Mountain region, and extends from central and southeastern British Columbia, west-central and southeastern Alberta, southwestern Saskatchewan, western and central Montana, and southwestern South Dakota southward (east of the Cascades and Sierra Nevada ranges) to southern Nevada, central Arizona, southern New Mexico, and extreme western Texas.  Generally winters in the southwestern United States southward into Baja California and Mexico (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Similar to Yellow-bellied Sapsucker, but female has white chin combined with red throat, and both sexes also have small red nape patch.

Nest Habits: Usually nests in cavity of live tree or snag, generally up to 10-20 or more feet above the ground.

Eggs: 3-7, usually 4-5; 24 mm.; white.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 12-13 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 25-29 days old.


SECRETS:
The erratic, uneven tapping and the plaintive, cat-like call note are diagnostic of this species; formerly classified with Red-naped and Yellow-bellied Sapsuckers as one species. Sapsuckers drill rows of evenly spaced holes in trees.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in coniferous and coniferous-aspen forests, as well as in lowlands along the coast; during migration and winter, frequents a variety of wooded and semi-wooded environments, including parks, residential areas, tree orchards, etc.

Distribution: Breeding range is limited to extreme western North America, and extends from southeastern Alaska and coastal and central interior British Columbia south (primarily near the coast) to central California; also in the Sierra Nevada and mountains further east to south-central California, extreme western Nevada, and southern Nevada; generally winters throughout its breeding range south into northern Baja California (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: As in other sapsuckers, note white vertical bar on side of wing.  Entire head and upper breast are bright red.  Lower chest and belly yellowish-white.  Wings and back have variable amount of black and white in them.

Nest Habits: Usually nests in cavity of live tree or snag, generally up to 15-60 or more feet above the ground.

Eggs: 4-7, usually 4-5; 24 mm.; white.

Incubation: It is thought that both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 12-13 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 25-29 days old.


SECRETS:
Unlike other woodpecker species, the male and female of this species are so different in appearance from one another that they were originally each described as separate species.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in montane coniferous forests; also utilizes stands of aspen.  During migration and winter, also frequents pine and pine-oak woodlands (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range in the mountains of the west extends from south-central British Columbia, Idaho, western Montana, and Wyoming south to east-central California, central Arizona, and southern New Mexico; also locally in southern California and to northern Baja California.  Northern populations are migratory; generally winters from California, Arizona, New Mexico, and western Texas south to northern Baja California and into Mexico (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Differences in plumage between the sexes is more pronounced in this species than in other sapsuckers.  Male is mostly black, except for white lines in back of eye and extending from base of bill, red chin, yellowish belly, and white vertical wing patch.  Female has light brown head, brown-and-white barred back, dark breast patch and yellowish belly.

Nest Habits: Nests in tree cavity, generally up to 3-60 feet above the ground.

Eggs: 3-7, usually 5-6; 24 mm.; white.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 12-14 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 21-28 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in forests and woodlands (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Native to Europe, Asia, and Africa; considered accidental in the Aleutian Islands (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Black and white plumage features white underparts, and dark upperparts with two white spots (one on each side) on nape and two larger white spots (again, one on each side) on back.

Nest Habits: Does not breed in North America.


SECRETS:
When you can only get a brief glimpse at a woodpecker, remember that within the range of the Nuttall's Woodpecker, the dark spotting on the sides of the breast and flanks separates this species from Downy or Hairy Woodpecker.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in forested or open woodland habitats, usually consisting of oak or pine-oak associations; also frequents riparian woodlands (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range is limited to California and northwestern Baja California, west of the deserts and the Sierra Nevada (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Note dark spotting on sides and flanks; white underparts.  Wings and back are black, with white spotting on wings and white barring on back.  Compare black-and-white facial pattern with Ladder-backed Woodpecker.

Nest Habits: Nests in tree cavity, generally up to 3-60 feet above the ground.

Eggs: 3-6, usually 4-5; 22 mm.; white.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 14 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 29 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in deciduous forests, pine-oak woodlands, or in somewhat more open habitats with scattered trees, including pine savanna; usually in arid environments (A.O.U. 1998; Howell and Webb 1995).

Distribution: This species resides in an area extending from southeastern California, southern Nevada, southwestern Utah, north-central New Mexico, southeastern Colorado, southwestern Kansas, and the western two-thirds of Texas south into Mexico and Baja California (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Creamy white underparts with extensive spotting on sides and flanks, extending onto breast.  Black-and-white barring on back gives this bird its name.  Note increased amount of white on face compared to Nuttall's Woodpecker.

Nest Habits: Nests in cavity of tree or cactus, generally up to 2-30 feet above the ground.

Eggs: 2-6, usually 4-5; 21 mm.; white.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 13 days.


SECRETS:
Call, 'pik' is milder than call of Hairy Woodpecker; note that in Downy Woodpecker, the bill length is about half the length of the head.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in a variety of deciduous and mixed deciduous-coniferous woodlands; also in parks, riparian areas, second-growth habitats, residential areas, tree orchards, and other open or semi-open habitats with scattered trees (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Widespread.  Resident from western Alaska, southern Yukon, southwestern Mackenzie, northern Alberta, northern Saskatchewan, northern Manitoba, and northern Ontario east to Newfoundland; and south through the majority of the United States, except southern Arizona, southern Texas, and the Florida Keys (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: White vertical stripe down middle of back, white underparts; when present, black spots on white outer tail feathers are diagnostic.  Compare with larger Hairy Woodpecker; descending whinny call easily identifies this species.

Nest Habits: Nests in tree cavity, generally up to 3-50 feet above the ground.

Eggs: 3-7, usually 4-5; 19 mm.; white.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 12 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 20-25 days old.


SECRETS:
Nests of this Endangered bird are not hard to find, due to the extensive amounts of resin that flow from the trees around the nest cavity; use proper birding etiquette when observing this species & try not to unduly disturb nesting birds.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in relatively open pine woodlands, usually with grassy or sparse understory (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Resident locally in the southeastern United States, from southeastern Oklahoma, southern Arkansas, and northern Mississippi, east to northern Georgia, southeastern Virginia, and southern Maryland; and south to eastern Texas, the Gulf coast, and Florida (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Note black streaks/spots on sides and flanks, black back with white barring, large white patch on side of face, and small (hard to see) red spot behind eye on male.

Nest Habits: Nests in tree cavity of living pines, where it digs small holes in bark of tree above and below the nest cavity; from these holes resin flows down the trunk.  The resin tends to repel would-be predators, including snakes.  Trees selected for nesting are usually infected with a fungal disease called red heart.  May nest in loose colonies or family groups.  Cavity is generally placed up to 10-40 or more feet above the ground.

Eggs: 2-5, usually 3-4; 24 mm.; white.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 10-15 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 22-29 days old.


SECRETS:
Two subspecies occur within our area, one of which is restricted to central Mexico.  Some authorities consider these two forms to be separate species: the Arizona Woodpecker and Strickland's Woodpecker.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in oak and pine-oak forests (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Resident from southern Arizona and southwestern New Mexico south into Mexico (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Dark brownish back, red nape patch (male only), and numerous black spots on creamy-white breast.

Nest Habits: Nests in tree cavity, generally up to 8-50 or more feet above the ground.

Eggs: 3-4; 25 mm.; white.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 14 days.


SECRETS:
Call, 'peek!' is more emphatic than call of Downy Woodpecker; note that in Hairy Woodpecker, the bill length is about equal to the length of the head.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in deciduous and coniferous forests, parks, and even in more open habitats with scattered trees; compared to Downy Woodpecker, often frequents habitats with larger trees.

Distribution: Widespread.  Breeding range extends from western Alaska, central Yukon, southwestern and south-central Mackenzie, northern Saskatchewan, northern Manitoba, and northern Ontario east to central western Labrador and Newfoundland; and south through the majority of the United States to northern Baja California and parts of Mexico.  Some withdrawal occurs from northern part of range in winter (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: White vertical stripe down middle of back, white underparts.  Outer tail feathers are completely white.  Compare with smaller Downy Woodpecker; loud, rattling call does not descend as in Downy Woodpecker.

Nest Habits: Nests in tree cavity, generally up to 5-30 or more feet above the ground.

Eggs: 3-6, usually 4; 25 mm.; white.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 11-15 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 28-30 days old.


SECRETS:
Despite having only three colors (black, white, and a limited amount of red), this brilliantly-plumaged woodpecker can arguably be considered near the top of the list of the most beautiful birds in North America!

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in montane coniferous forests (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: This species is resident from southern interior British Columbia, north-central Washington, and northern Idaho south through mountain habitats to northern California, and further south in California, through the Sierra Nevada, to south-central California; also in west-central Nevada (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Mostly black, except for stunningly white head and white wing patches; male has red nape spot.

Nest Habits: Nests in tree cavity, generally up to 2-25 or more feet above the ground.

Eggs: 3-7, usually 4-5; 24 mm.; white.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 14 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 26 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in coniferous forests, where its preference is for spruce trees, especially in areas with many dead trees (e.g., resulting from fire or insect outbreak); also frequents mixed coniferous-deciduous forests (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: This species is resident from Alaska and northern Yukon east across northwestern and central Mackenzie, northern Saskatchewan, northern Manitoba, northern Ontario, and north-central Quebec east to Labrador and Newfoundland; and south to southern Oregon, eastern Nevada, central Arizona, southern New Mexico, and southwestern South Dakota; further east, range extends southward to southern Canada, the Great Lakes region, northern New York, and the New England states; occasionally occurs further south (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Note black-and-white barring on back, black barring on sides of breast, and yellowish crown (male only); compare with Black-backed Woodpecker.

Nest Habits: Nests in tree cavity, generally up to 3-15 or more feet above the ground.

Eggs: 2-6, usually 4; 23 mm.; white.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 11 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 22-26 days old.


SECRETS:
In eastern North America, this species is prone to irruptive movements in the winter, when it may occur further south of normal resident breeding range; rather tame, often allows observers to approach closely.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in coniferous forests, where its preference is for spruce and fir trees, especially in areas with many dead trees (e.g., resulting from fire or insect outbreak); less commonly in deciduous or mixed deciduous-coniferous woodlands and forests (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: This species is resident from Alaska and southern Yukon east across west-central and southern Mackenzie, northern Saskatchewan, northern Manitoba, and northern Ontario east to central Labrador and Newfoundland; and south to British Columbia and the mountains of the Pacific coast states and west-central Nevada; also south to Idaho, Montana, northern Wyoming, and southwestern South Dakota; further east, range extends southward to central and southern Canada, the Great Lakes region, northern New York, and the New England states; occasionally occurs further south (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Note black back (compare with Three-toed Woodpecker).  Also, note black barring on sides of breast, and yellowish crown (male only).

Nest Habits: Nests in tree cavity, generally up to 2-15 or more feet above the ground.

Eggs: 2-6, usually 4; 22 mm.; white.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 12-14 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 25 days old.


SECRETS:
The taxonomy of the Northern Flicker is complex; at one time, 3 species were recognized: Red-shafted, Yellow-shafted, and Gilded Flickers; these were all then lumped into Northern Flicker; and now Gilded Flicker is a separate species again.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in woodlands, parks, and similar habitats; also frequents more open habitats with scattered trees (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Widespread.  Breeding range encompasses most of North America from northern Canada (excluding northernmost portions of Canada) south to Baja California, the Gulf coast, and Mexico.  Northern populations are migratory; generally winters from southern Canada (further north along the west coast) south through breeding range (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Brown back with black barring, white rump (easily visible in flight), spotted underparts, and yellow- or red-colored underwings identify this species.  Moustache on side of male's face is black in Yellow-shafted Flickers, red in Red-shafted Flickers.  Unlike other woodpeckers, often seen feeding on the ground.

Nest Habits: Nests in tree cavity, but may also use wooden posts or utility poles.  Nest is generally placed up to 2-90 or more feet above the ground.

Eggs: 3-12, usually 5-8; 28 mm.; white.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 11-14 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 25-28 days old.


SECRETS:
Formerly classified as a subspecies under the Northern Flicker (see secrets for the Northern Flicker for more information).

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in saguaro cactus stands; also frequents Joshua tree stands and riparian woodlands in the desert and adjacent foothills (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Limited distribution includes extreme northeastern Baja California and central Arizona south to southern Baja California and northwestern Mexico (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Compare with Northern Flicker; brown crown and (in male) red moustache separate it from Yellow-shafted race of Northern Flicker; very similar to Red-shafted race of Northern Flicker, except that undersides of wing and tail are golden-colored.

Nest Habits: Nests in saguaro cactus cavity or in tree cavity, generally up to 5-30 feet above the ground.

Eggs: 4; 28 mm.; white.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 11-14 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 25-28 days old.


SECRETS:
The presence of Pileated Woodpecker can be inferred even when no birds can be seen or heard; look for large triangular or rectangular tree cavity entrances which average 3.5 to 4.5 inches wide (wider than most other woodpecker species).

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in deciduous and coniferous forests and woodlands; also frequents wooded suburban habitats where tall trees occur (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: This species is resident from southwestern Mackenzie and northern Alberta east across northwestern Saskatchewan, central Manitoba, and central Ontario east to New Brunswick and Nova Scotia; and south to: (1) south-coastal and central British Columbia, and south along the Pacific coastal states to central California; (2) southern Alberta and south-central Idaho, western Montana, and Wyoming; and (3) the Missouri and Mississippi River floodplains, south to Texas and east to the Atlantic coast, Florida, and the Gulf coast (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Large size, red crest, mostly black plumage, white wing patches, and white stripes down side of neck make this bird easy to identify; loud call sounds more like some South American exotic than a native North American bird.  Loud drumming (on trees) made in the spring can usually be identified as this species.

Nest Habits: Nests in tree cavity, generally up to 15-45 or more feet above the ground.

Eggs: 3-8, usually 3-5; 33 mm.; white.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 15-18 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 26-28 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Formerly found in mature lowland deciduous forests, including swamps, less commonly in pines (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Extinct; formerly resident from southeastern Oklahoma, eastern Arkansas, the Ohio and Mississippi River floodplains of Missouri, Illinois, and Kentucky, and southeastern North Carolina south to eastern Texas, the Gulf coast, and southern Florida.  Two subspecies are described in the literature; the range for the one native to the United States (C. p. principalis) is described above; the other subspecies (C. p. bairdii) occurred in Cuba (A.O.U. 1998).  Many scientists believe this species to be extirpated from the United States, and for many years it was believed that this bird was nearing extinction if it had not already gone extinct.  However, in 1986, it was re-discovered in eastern Cuba.  Despite this significant find, however, it eventually became clear that conservation efforts to save this species should have been started decades earlier.  It is now thought that the Ivory-billed Woodpecker became extinct sometime prior to the 1990's, although the last sighting in the United States occurred much earlier than that.  The impacts of logging activities on the habitat of this species apparently adversely affected its food supply and its need for large, undisturbed tracts of mature lowland forests.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in second-growth forested habitats, riparian thickets, and in semi-open areas with scattered trees (A.O.U. 1998; Howell and Webb 1995).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from southeastern Arizona, southwestern New Mexico, and southern Texas south to Mexico and Central America; withdraws from northern part of range in winter, when it is found from Mexico south through its breeding range (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Grayish-olive above, with dull grayish breast and belly; note buffy wing bars and eyebrow.  Erectile feathers on crown form small crest.

Nest Habits: Builds globular or spherical nest structure, which is placed in tree, generally up to 4-50 feet above the ground.  Nest is lined with down and feathers.

Eggs: 1-3, usually 3; 16 mm.; white in color, with brown markings.

Incubation: It is thought that female incubates the eggs while both sexes care for the young.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in woodlands and forests; also frequents nearby scrub habitats (Howell and Webb 1995).

Distribution: Native to Mexico, Central America, and South America; considered accidental in Texas (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Greenish back, tail, and wings, with yellow-green tinge to wings and tail; also note lemon-yellow belly, grayish breast, white lores, and dark eye line.

Nest Habits: Does not breed in the United States.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in woodlands and along woodland edge; also frequents brushy second-growth habitats (Howell and Webb 1995).

Distribution: Native to islands in the Caribbean Sea, off the coast of the Yucatan Peninsula, and from Puerto Rico south to Grenada (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Pale grayish-olive head and upper breast, pale yellow belly.  Note slight crest at rear of crown, and light color to lower mandible.

Nest Habits: Does not breed in the United States.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in pine-oak and evergreen forests, along woodland edge, in riparian areas, and in more open situations (Howell and Webb 1995).

Distribution: Native to Mexico, Central America, and South America; considered accidental in Texas (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Note erectile feathers on crown, producing crest for which this bird is named.  Reddish-orange breast and head, with dark eye, white eye ring, and grayish lores.  Bill is bicolored, with dark upper mandible and orange-colored lower mandible.

Nest Habits: Does not breed in the United States.


SECRETS:
Song, 'Quick, three beers!', is easily learned. However, most beginning birders are unfamiliar with the Olive-sided's call, which can be described as a quick 'pip-pip-pip'. Listen for this call in migration or on breeding grounds.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Breeds in taiga and coniferous forest habitats, including spruce bogs; also frequents mixed coniferous-deciduous forests.  During migration, may be found in a variety of woodland situations (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from western Alaska and central Yukon east across west-central and southern Mackenzie, northern Saskatchewan, north-central Manitoba, northern Ontario, and south-central Quebec east to south-central Labrador and central Newfoundland; and south: (1) along the Pacific coast to central California; (2) in the western mountains to northern Baja California, southern Nevada, northern Arizona, southern New Mexico, and western Texas; and (3) to central Saskatchewan, southern Manitoba, the Great Lakes region, western Massachusetts, and south locally in the Appalachian Mountains to the Tennessee/North Carolina border .  Migrates to South America for the winter (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Large-headed appearance, gray-olive sides with white streak down middle of chest, and white tufts above rump on perched bird help identify this flycatcher.  Remember: this species is almost never seen perched in anything other than a dead snag or on the dead limbs of a live tree.

Nest Habits: Nests in tree (usually a coniferous tree), generally up to 5-75 feet above the ground.  Nest is a cup-shaped structure built from twigs, mosses, lichens, grass, and pine needles.

Eggs: 3-4, usually 3; 22 mm.; white, buff, or pink in color, with brown and gray markings.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and both sexes care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 14 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 21-23 days old.


SECRETS:
In old field guides, this species may be identified as Coues's Flycatcher.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in pine-oak, evergreen, and mixed coniferous-deciduous forests, along woodland edge, and even in clearings (Howell and Webb 1995).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from central Arizona and southwestern New Mexico south into Mexico to Central America.  Withdraws from northernmost portion of range in winter, when it is found from northern Mexico south throughout its breeding range (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Larger than Eastern or Western Wood-Pewee; note bright, orange-yellow lower mandible, and grayish-olive back, wings, and head.  Head feathers may sometimes be erected into crest.  Song, when heard, is diagnostic.

Nest Habits: Nests in tree, generally up to 10-40 feet above the ground.  Nest is a cup-shaped structure built from grasses, lichens, and leaves.

Eggs: 3-4; 21 mm.; white to pale cream in color, with brown markings.

Incubation: Little information is available.


SECRETS:
Listen for 3-syllabled song, 'phee-two-weet' which is often given in conjunction with call note, a descending 'pheeer'.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in coniferous or mixed coniferous-deciduous forests; and in woodlands in riparian areas (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends along the Pacific coast from east central Alaska south to Baja California, and east to southern Mackenzie, northwestern Saskatchewan, south-central Manitoba, northwestern Minnesota, central North Dakota, western South Dakota, western Nebraska, western Kansas, and western Texas south into Mexico.  Migrates to South America for the winter (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: The Western and Eastern Wood-Pewees are told from other flycatchers by the general lack of an eye ring (compare to Empidonax flycatchers) and presence of obvious wing bars (compare to Eastern and Black Phoebes); they generally do not wag their tails as phoebes do.  However, separating these two species of Wood-Pewees from one another is best accomplished by using distributional range and voice.

Nest Habits: Nests in tree, generally up to 15-35 or more feet above the ground.  Nest is a cup-shaped structure built from grasses, leaves, bark, and spider's silk.

Eggs: 2-4, usually 3; 18 mm.; cream-white in color, with brown markings.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and both sexes care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 12-13 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 14-18 days old.


SECRETS:
Song, 'Pee-o-wee, Pee-ooo', is easily learned and is readily distinguished from song of Western Wood-Pewee.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in coniferous or mixed coniferous-deciduous forests; also frequents parks, open woodlands, and woodland edge habitats (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends along the Atlantic coast from northern Maine, New Brunswick, and Nova Scotia south to Florida; and west to southeastern Saskatchewan and south-central Texas; range generally overlaps little with Western Wood-Pewee.  Migrates to South America for the winter (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: The Eastern and Western Wood-Pewees are told from other flycatchers by the general lack of an eye ring (compare to Empidonax flycatchers) and presence of obvious wing bars (compare to Eastern and Black Phoebes); they generally do not wag their tails as phoebes do.  However, separating these two species of Wood-Pewees from one another is best accomplished by using distributional range and voice.

Nest Habits: Nests in tree, generally up to 15-35 or more feet above the ground.  Nest is a cup-shaped structure built from grasses, bark, lichens, and other materials, and lined with wool, horsehair, thread, and grass.

Eggs: 2-4, usually 3; 18 mm.; cream-white in color, with brown markings.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and both sexes care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 12-13 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 14-18 days old.


SECRETS:
Calls include a rising, 'ker-wee', which has an almost Semipalmated Plover-like quality to it.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Breeds in boreal coniferous forests (A.O.U. 1998); in migration, found in woodlands and along woodland edge.

Distribution: Breeding range extends from central and northeastern British Columbia and west-central and southern Mackenzie east across northern Saskatchewan, northern Manitoba, northern Ontario, and central Quebec east to south-central Labrador and Newfoundland; and south to central Alberta, central Saskatchewan, the Great lakes region, and north-central New York east to New Brunswick and Nova Scotia.  Migrates to Mexico and Central America for the winter (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Note yellow eye ring, yellowish throat, and obvious yellow belly; compare plumage to that of Acadian Flycatcher.  Song is similar to Least Flycatcher's but not given as frequently.

Nest Habits: Nests on or close to the ground, where it places its nest in a mossy hummock or within the upturned roots of a fallen tree, generally 0-2 feet above the ground.  Nest is a cup-shaped structure built from moss, small roots, and grasses, and lined with pine needles, small roots, and grass.

Eggs: 3-5, usually 3-4; 17 mm.; white in color, lightly marked with brown.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and both sexes care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 12-13 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 13-14 days old.


SECRETS:
In areas where range overlaps with other Empidonax flycatchers, the Acadian is the only one which shows a strong preference for mature deciduous bottomland forests and steep, wooded ravines.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Breeds in deciduous forests, usually along steep slopes and ravines and commonly near water.

Distribution: Breeding range extends from southeastern South Dakota east to central New York, Massachusetts, and Vermont, and south to southern Texas, the Gulf coast, and central Florida.  Migrates to Central and South America for the winter (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Note greenish back and wings and the obvious eye ring.  As in most Empidonax flycatchers, best identified by voice and habitat.  Song is an explosive 'peet-za!'.

Nest Habits: Nests in tree or shrub, generally up to 8-20 or more feet above the ground.  Nest is a cup-shaped structure built from twigs, moss, and spider's silk and lined with grass, hair, and plant down.

Eggs: 2-4, usually 3; 18 mm.; cream to buff-white in color, lightly marked with brown.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and both sexes care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 14 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 13-15 days old.


SECRETS:
Formerly classified with the Willow Flycatcher as a single species known as the Traill's Flycatcher; study the songs and calls of these two flycatchers closely -- soon you will be able to readily identify them in the field.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Typically breeds in brushy thickets and second-growth habitats along lakes and streams, and in alder swamps or forested swamps (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from central Alaska and central Yukon east across northwestern and southern Mackenzie, northern Saskatchewan, northern Manitoba, and northern Ontario east to southern Labrador and southern Newfoundland; and south to south-central British Columbia, southern Alberta, southern Saskatchewan, northern North Dakota, the Great Lakes region, eastern Pennsylvania, and western Maryland; and south locally in the Appalachian Mountains to the Tennessee/North Carolina border.  Migrates to South America for the winter (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Eye ring is present, although not as bold as in some other Empidonax flycatchers.  Most closely associated with Willow Flycatcher; these two species are essentially indistinguishable in the field under most conditions, but can readily be identified if songs are heard.  Song has an upward inflection to it; it is 3-syllabled, but the untrained ear may only hear two syllables.

Nest Habits: Nests in shrub, generally up to 1-4 feet above the ground.  Nest is a cup-shaped structure built from grasses, leaves, mosses, pine needles, bark, and other vegetation.

Eggs: 2-4, usually 3-4; 18 mm.; white in color, with brown markings.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and both sexes care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 12-13 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 13-14 days old.


SECRETS:
Formerly classified with the Alder Flycatcher as a single species known as the Traill's Flycatcher; study the songs and calls of these two flycatchers closely -- soon you will be able to readily identify them in the field.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Typically breeds in brushy thickets and second-growth habitats of riparian areas; frequently in willow or buttonbush thickets (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from central British Columbia east across southern Canada and the Great Lakes region to New Brunswick; and south to southern California (and northern Baja California), southern Arizona, southern New Mexico, northeastern Oklahoma, northeastern Louisiana, and central Tennessee east to northern Georgia and the Carolinas; less common and local in the southwest, where it is listed as Endangered.  Migrates to Mexico and Central America for the winter (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Eye ring is present, although not as bold as in some other Empidonax flycatchers.  Most closely associated with Alder Flycatcher; these two species are essentially indistinguishable in the field under most conditions, but can readily be identified if songs are heard.  Song, 'Fitz-bew!', has an downward inflection to it.

Nest Habits: Nests in shrub, generally up to 2-10 or more feet above the ground.  Nest is a cup-shaped structure built from bark, grasses, silky or cottony plant materials, and other vegetation; nest is lined with grasses and feathers.

Eggs: 2-4, usually 3-4; 18 mm.; buff or white in color, with brown markings near large end of egg.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and both sexes care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 12-13 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 12-14 days old.


SECRETS:
Song, 'che-bek', has a dryer and snappier quality than similar 'che-bunk' song of Yellow-bellied Flycatcher; Least Flycatcher's song is also given more frequently.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in open deciduous woodlands, along woodland edge, and in park-like habitats (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from southern Yukon and west-central and southern Mackenzie east across northern Alberta, northern Saskatchewan, north-central Manitoba, and northern Ontario east to New Brunswick and Nova Scotia; and south to western Washington, eastern Oregon, northeastern California, Montana, northeastern Colorado, central and southeastern South Dakota, Missouri, central Illinois, and northern Indiana east to central New Jersey; and locally south in the Appalachian Mountains to Tennessee, North Carolina, and northwestern Georgia.  Migrates to Mexico and Central America for the winter, although a few birds are occasionally found in southern California, southern Florida, and along the Gulf coast (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Note eye ring and wing bars; upperparts may be gray or olive-gray.  As with most Empidonax flycatchers, hearing the song or call notes is the best and most reliable means of identification; listen for its 'che-bek' song in migration and on the breeding grounds.

Nest Habits: Nests in trees or shrub, generally up to 7-40 or more feet above the ground.  Nest is a cup-shaped structure built from bark, grasses, plant down, and spider's silk; nest is lined with grasses, animal hairs, feathers, and plant down.

Eggs: 3-6, usually 4; 16 mm.; cream-white in color.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and both sexes care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 13-14 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 12-16 days old.


SECRETS:
Examine the bill of the Hammond's Flycatcher closely: note its relatively small size, and also note that the lower mandible is mostly dark, being pale only at the base of the bill. In some birds, the bill may appear all dark in the field.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: This species breeds in well-stocked fir forests and in coniferous woodlands (A.O.U. 1998), usually at high elevations; during migration and in winter, also frequents pine or pine-oak forests, and deciduous woodlands.

Distribution: Breeding range extends from east-central Alaska, southern Yukon, British Columbia, southwestern Alberta, western and south-central Montana, and northwestern Wyoming south to north-central New Mexico, western Colorado, northeastern Arizona, central Utah, east-central Nevada, and through the Pacific coastal states to east-central California.  Generally winters from southeastern Arizona, southwestern New Mexico, and Mexico south to Central America (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Compare closely with Dusky Flycatcher.  Note short, mostly dark bill.  However, best identified by voice: song consists of three parts, but is hoarser and more burry than Dusky's song; it also lacks the higher-pitched 'pweet' or 'seet' element of Dusky's song.  Call note is a sharp 'peek', like that of a woodpecker or Long-billed Dowitcher.  Compare song also to Pacific-slope Flycatcher.

Nest Habits: Nests in trees, generally up to 25-40 or more feet above the ground.  Nest is a cup-shaped structure built from bark, small roots, twigs, pine needles, grasses, and feathers; nest is lined with grasses and mosses.

Eggs: 2-4; 18 mm.; white to cream-white in color, with small brown markings.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and both sexes care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 12-15 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 17-18 days old.


SECRETS:
In its typical habitat, the behavior & color patterns of this species allow it to be identified with some degree of confidence; otherwise, one should rely on songs, calls, & advanced field guides to identify Empidonax flycatchers.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: This species breeds in arid pinyon-juniper or sagebrush habitats; may also frequent pine-oak woodlands (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from extreme southern British Columbia, central and eastern Washington, south-central Idaho, southern Wyoming, and central Colorado south to south-central California, southern Nevada, central Arizona, southern New Mexico, and western Texas.  Generally winters from central Arizona south into Mexico; also in southern Baja California (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Decidedly gray above, but may have olive wash on upperparts in the fall.  Grayish head and face; note eye ring and wing bars, which are characteristic of Empidonax flycatchers.  Upper mandible is dark, lower mandible mostly pale, except for dark tip.  However, best identified by voice: song consists of two elements; the one that is most frequently given is a 2-syllabled 'chuwip' or 'chi-wip'; occasionally it may also combine this with a second, single note element.  Call is a dry 'wit', similar in quality to the call of other Empidonax species, including Dusky Flycatcher.  Up/down tail-wagging behavior is different from the quick, jerky movements of some other Empidonax flycatchers; instead, the downward movement of the tail is slower and more pronounced.

Nest Habits: Nests in shrubs, generally up to 2-9 feet above the ground.  Nest is a cup-shaped structure built from plant down, bark, and grasses; nest is lined with bark, animal hair, wool, and feathers.

Eggs: 3-4; 18 mm.; white.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and both sexes care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 14 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 16 days old.


SECRETS:
Where the range of this species overlaps with Hammond's Flycatcher, focus on habitat and elevation as additional aids to identification; Dusky is usually found at lower elevations, in more open wooded habitats.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: This species is found in coniferous and mixed coniferous-deciduous forests, typically in more open situations than Hammond's Flycatcher.  Also frequents chaparral, aspen, and willow groves or thickets (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from southwestern Yukon south and southeast to British Columbia, north-central Washington, south-central Alberta, southwestern Saskatchewan, and eastern Montana; and from there, south to southern California, southern Nevada, southwestern Utah, central Arizona, and central and northeastern New Mexico; range extends east locally to western South Dakota.  Generally winters from southern Arizona, southwestern New Mexico, and western Texas, south into Mexico; some birds are also found in the winter in southern California (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Compare closely with Hammond's Flycatcher.  Note that lower mandible is mostly pale, being dark mostly at the tip.  However, best identified by voice: song consists of three parts, including a higher-pitched 'pweet' or 'seet' element which Hammond's does not give.  Call note is a short, dry 'wit' or 'whit'; on the breeding grounds, males may also give a 'dee-hic' or 'dew-hic' call, unlike the sharp 'peek' of the Hammond's Flycatcher.  Compare song also to Pacific-slope Flycatcher.

Nest Habits: Nests in trees or shrubs, generally up to 4-7 or more feet above the ground.  Nest is a cup-shaped structure built from grasses and other vegetation; nest is lined with grasses, plant down, animal hair, and feathers.

Eggs: 3-4; 18 mm.; pale white in color.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs (however, mostly be female) and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 12-15 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 18 days old.


SECRETS:
This species and the Cordilleran Flycatcher were once classified together as the Western Flycatcher; nearly identical to one another, they are best identified by distributional range (breeding grounds) and by call notes.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: This species breeds in coniferous and pine-oak forests; also frequents woodlands with dense second-growth habitat (A.O.U. 1998); usually near water.

Distribution: Breeding range extends from southeastern Alaska and central British Columbia south along the Pacific coastal states to southwestern California and northern Baja California, generally west of the Sierra Nevada range; also breeds in southern Baja California.  Generally winters in southern Baja California and in Mexico (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Entire lower mandible bright orange; also note bold white eye ring with tear-drop shape at rear of eye.  Compare song to those of Hammond's and Dusky Flycatchers.  Call note, 'Sue-weet!', is frequently given on breeding grounds and easily recognized.  Arrives earlier in the spring than other migrant Empidonax flycatchers.

Nest Habits: Nests in a variety of situations, including natural cavities (in cliffs or in trees), on the upturned roots of fallen trees, within wood piles, along overhanging stream bank, or on branch of tree; generally 0-30 feet above the ground.  Nest is a cup-shaped structure built from mosses, small roots, grasses, and other vegetation; nest is lined with animal hair, feathers, and fine plant vegetation.

Eggs: 3-5, usually 3-4; 17 mm.; pale white or cream-colored, with brown or lavender markings.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and both sexes care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 14-15 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 14-18 days old.


SECRETS:
This species and the Pacific-slope Flycatcher were once classified together as the Western Flycatcher; nearly identical to one another, they are best identified by distributional range (breeding grounds) and by call notes.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: This species breeds in coniferous and pine-oak forests; also frequents woodlands with dense second-growth habitat (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range is further east than Pacific-slope Flycatcher.  It is found from west-central Alberta, northern Idaho, central Montana, Wyoming, and western South Dakota south to northeastern California, central Nevada, and southeastern Arizona south into Mexico.  Range also extends eastward to northwestern Nebraska, central Colorado, central New Mexico, and western Texas.  Migrates to Mexico for the winter (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Entire lower mandible bright orange; also note bold white eye ring with tear-drop shape at rear of eye.  Compare song to those of Hammond's and Dusky Flycatchers.  Call note is similar to Pacific-slope Flycatcher's but decidedly 2-syllabled.

Nest Habits: Nests in a variety of situations, including natural cavities (in cliffs or in trees), on the upturned roots of fallen trees, within wood piles, along overhanging stream bank, or on branch of tree; generally 0-30 feet above the ground.  Nest is a cup-shaped structure built from mosses, small roots, grasses, and other vegetation; nest is lined with animal hair, feathers, and fine plant vegetation.

Eggs: 3-5, usually 3-4; 17 mm.; pale white or cream-colored, with brown or lavender markings.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and both sexes care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 14-15 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 14-18 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in open situations such as grassy or scrubby clearings, and pastures; also frequents pine and pine-oak forests (A.O.U. 1998; Howell and Webb 1995).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from east-central and southeastern Arizona and west-central and southwestern New Mexico south into Mexico and Central America.  Withdraws from northern part of range in the winter, when it is found from Mexico south throughout its breeding range (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Note small size, brownish upperparts, and buffy wash across breast.  As with all Empidonax flycatchers, it has wing bars and an eye ring.  Lower mandible is pale-colored.

Nest Habits: Nests in trees, generally up to 9-45 feet above the ground.  Nest is a cup-shaped structure built from grasses, small roots, and spider's silk; nest is lined with grasses, animal hair, feathers, lichens, and other materials.

Eggs: 3-5, usually 4; 15 mm.; cream-white in color.

Incubation: It is thought that female incubates the eggs and both sexes care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 14-15 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 14-17 days old.


SECRETS:
Although its song is easily learned, the Eastern Phoebe also has a brief, sweet 'chip' note, which can be used to detect birds in the woods when they otherwise can not be seen, especially during the non-breeding season.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Breeds in deciduous woodlands, usually in open situations, but even in more open environments with scattered trees.

Distribution: Breeding range extends from northeastern British Columbia, west-central and southern Mackenzie, northern Saskatchewan, northern Manitoba, western and central Ontario, and southwestern Quebec east to southern Nova Scotia; and south to southern Alberta, northeastern Wyoming, and southwestern South Dakota; and from there south to central and northeastern Texas, the northern portions of the Gulf states, northern Georgia, northwestern Florida, and western South Carolina.  Northern populations are migratory; generally winters in the southeastern United States, north to Virginia and west to central Texas; occasionally further north.  Also winters in southeastern Arizona and southern New Mexico (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Phoebes are told from Empidonax flycatchers by lack of eye ring and wing bars, and from Wood-Pewees by lack of wing bars.  Phoebes also regularly wag their tails, further distinguishing them from Wood-Pewees.  The Eastern Phoebe is told by its pale white (sometimes yellowish) underparts, dark bill, and dark gray upperparts.  Song, 'Phoe-bee!', is easily learned (don't mistake 2-note song of Black-capped Chickadee as this species!).

Nest Habits: Nests in a variety of locations ranging from caves or recesses on wall of ravines or steep hillsides to a variety of human-built structures (e.g., bridges, culverts, houses, barns, etc.).  Usually builds nest in a sheltered area, like underneath a bridge, inside a culvert, under the eaves of a house, etc.  Nest is a cup-shaped structure built from mud and moss; nest is lined with grasses, animal hair, and feathers.

Eggs: 3-8, usually 4-5; 19 mm.; white in color, sometimes lightly marked with brown.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and both sexes care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 16 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 15-16 days old.


SECRETS:
In fall migration, Say's Phoebe is rare but regular to the mid-Western states such as Minnesota and Missouri, and occasionally further east in Canada and the U.S., even as far as Newfoundland, the Atlantic coast, and Florida.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in open, scrubby, arid or desert-like habitats, including large fields and ranches; also found near large marshes and other wide, open spaces.

Distribution: A bird of western North America, the Say's Phoebe breeds from Alaska, northern Yukon, northwestern and central Mackenzie, central Alberta, central Saskatchewan, and southwestern Manitoba south to southern California, northern Baja California, and Mexico; and east to the Dakotas, northwestern Iowa, central Kansas, western Oklahoma, and western Texas.  Northern populations are migratory; generally winters from southern Oregon, southern Utah, central New Mexico, and central Texas south into Mexico and southern Baja California (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Dark gray upperparts, pale gray breast, and tan or cinnamon wash to belly and undertail coverts.  Note that, like other phoebes, it pumps its tail.

Nest Habits: Nests in a variety of locations including rocky ledge or crevice on cliff face or in cave, within a natural tree cavity, or in sheltered location of man-made structure (e.g., under bridges or inside abandoned buildings).  Nest is a cup-shaped structure built from grasses, moss, wool, spider's silk, and other materials.

Eggs: 3-7, usually 4-5; 19 mm.; white in color, sometimes lightly marked with red or brown.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and both sexes care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 12-14 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 14-16 days old.


SECRETS:
Four-part song is readily distinguished from 2-part song of Eastern Phoebe; sometimes, when Eastern Phoebes stray west in the winter, they may sing, giving you the opportunity to compare the songs.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Typically found near water (e.g., river, stream, or lake), in open, semi-wooded, or wooded habitats.

Distribution: The western counterpart to the Eastern Phoebe; breeds (and is mostly resident) from southwestern Oregon and California east across southern Nevada, southern Utah, northern Arizona, southeastern Colorado, and central New Mexico to western Texas; and south to southern Baja California, Mexico, and Central America (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Easily recognized by its tail-pumping habitats, mostly black plumage, and white belly and undertail coverts.

Nest Habits: Nest is usually placed on wall of cliff, or in sheltered area of man-made structure (e.g., under bridges or on side of buildings).  Nest is a cup-shaped structure built from mud, plant materials, and animal hair.  Nest is lined with animal hair, small roots, grasses, and bark.

Eggs: 3-6, usually 4; 19 mm.; white in color, sometimes with red or brown markings.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and both sexes care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 15-17 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 14-21 days old.


SECRETS:
In the fall and winter, Vermilion Flycatchers are prone to wandering north and east of their normal range; look for it along major river corridors (e.g., Mississippi or Ohio Rivers).

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in open and semi-open areas, sometimes with scattered trees; usually near water (A.O.U. 1998; Howell and Webb 1995).

Distribution: This species breeds from southern California, southern Nevada, extreme southwestern Utah, Arizona, New Mexico, western Oklahoma, and western and central Texas south into Mexico and Baja California.  Withdraws from extreme northern portion of range in winter, when it may also appear on the Gulf coast east to Florida (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Adult male is unmistakable.  Female has pale grayish-white breast, with dusky streakings; buffy or pinkish belly; note white eyebrow and darker eye patch.  Immatures are streaked on breast like adult females; belly color varies from yellowish to buff to red.

Nest Habits: Nests in trees, generally up to 8-20 or more feet above the ground.  Nest is a cup-shaped structure built from twigs, grasses, small roots, and spider's silk; nest is lined with animal hair and feathers.

Eggs: 2-4, usually 3; 17 mm.; white to cream-white in color, with dark brown or lavender markings.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and both sexes care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 14-15 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 14-16 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in evergreen, deciduous, and pine-oak forests; also frequents younger, open woodland habitats (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from southeastern Arizona and southwestern New Mexico south into Mexico and Central America; withdraws from northern portion of range in the winter, when it is found from central Mexico south throughout its breeding range (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Note relatively large bill.  Compare with Ash-throated Flycatcher; tail shows very little or no rufous coloration.  Song and calls are decidedly different from other Myiarchus flycatchers.

Nest Habits: Nests in cavities within trees, wooden posts, or cacti, generally up to 4-50 feet above the ground.  Nest is built from grasses, leaves, and bark, and is lined with animal hair and grasses.

Eggs: 4-5; 20 mm.; cream-white in color, with brown or purple markings.

Incubation: It is thought that both sexes care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 14 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 14 days old.


SECRETS:
Song consists of repetitions of its call, 'ka-wheer!', with the emphasis placed on the second syllable. Song can sometimes be overlooked by the novice birder.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in oak woodlands, chaparral or scrubby habitats, riparian woodlands, and in pinyon-juniper stands (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from northwestern Oregon, eastern Washington, southern Idaho, and southern Wyoming south and east to: southern Colorado, western Kansas, western Oklahoma, central Texas, Mexico, California, and Baja California.  Northern populations are migratory; generally winters from central Arizona and Mexico south throughout remainder of breeding range (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Grayish head and breast, pale yellow belly, rufous coloration in tail.  Brown-crested Flycatcher, which partially overlaps it in range, has brighter yellow coloration on belly and a larger bill.  Compare also with Great Crested Flycatcher.

Nest Habits: Nests in natural tree cavities, generally up to 20 feet above the ground.  Nest is built from animal hairs, small roots, grasses, and other materials.

Eggs: 3-7, usually 4-5; 22 mm.; yellowish-white or pinkish-white in color, with brown and purple markings.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and both sexes care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 15 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 14-16 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in scrubby woodlands and semi-open areas with small trees (Howell and Webb 1995).

Distribution: Native to Mexico and Central America; considered a casual visitor to Arizona (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Remarkably similar to Ash-throated Flycatcher; best distinguished from that species by voice, which is somewhat suggestive of Great Crested Flycatcher's call.

Nest Habits: Does not breed in the United States.


SECRETS:
Although this is the only Myiarchus flycatcher that breeds in much of eastern N. America, don't assume that every late fall/early winter Myiarchus there will be this species; take time to be sure your bird is not a vagrant Ash-throated.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in deciduous and evergreen broadleaf forests, along woodland edge, and in more open situations such as tree orchards and parks (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: The only Myiarchus flycatcher with a widespread distribution in eastern North America.  Breeding range extends along the Atlantic coast from central New Brunswick, Maine, and southern Nova Scotia south to southern Florida; and west to east-central Alberta, central North Dakota, eastern South Dakota, northeastern Colorado, western Kansas, and central and southeastern Texas.  Migrates to Mexico for the winter, when it may also be found in central and southern Florida (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Dark, greenish-brown upperparts, grayish throat and breast, bright yellow belly, and rufous coloration in wings and tail.  Call, a loud 'wheep!' or 'wheep, wheep!', is given during spring migration and on breeding grounds.

Nest Habits: Nests in natural tree cavities, generally up to 6-15 or more feet above the ground; may also use nest boxes.  The nest is a cup-like structure, built from grasses, leaves, pine needles, and other vegetation and miscellaneous materials.

Eggs: 4-8, usually 5-6; 23 mm.; yellowish-white or pinkish-white in color, with brown and purple markings.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and both sexes care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 13-15 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 12-21 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in deciduous forests, along woodland edge, in scrubby woodlands, and in open areas with scattered trees (A.O.U. 1998; Howell and Webb 1995).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from southeastern California, extreme southern Nevada, extreme southwestern Utah, Arizona, southwestern New Mexico, and southern Texas south into Mexico and Central America.  Withdraws from northern portion of range in the winter, when it is found from northern Mexico southward throughout its breeding range (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Note large size, big-headed appearance, and relatively large, heavy bill.  Yellow belly is not as bright as in Great Crested Flycatcher.  Rufous in tail is not as rich or extensive as in Great Crested or Ash-throated Flycatchers.  However, best identified by song and call notes, especially during migration seasons when Great Crested Flycatcher moves through range of Brown-crested Flycatcher.

Nest Habits: Nests in woodpecker cavities, either within trees or wooden posts, generally up to 5-30 feet above the ground.  Nest is built from animal hair, feathers, and other materials.

Eggs: 3-6, usually 4-5; 24 mm.; creamy-buff in color, and blotched, spotted, or scrawled with brown and purple markings.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and both sexes care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 13-15 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 12-21 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in pine, tropical evergreen, and mangrove forests (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Native to Cuba and the Bahama Islands; considered a casual visitor to Florida and accidental in Alabama (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Compare with Ash-throated Flycatcher; note very pale underparts, which are frequently completely white in color (including the belly); upperparts are more olive in color.

Nest Habits: Does not breed in the United States.


SECRETS:
Although this species barely makes it into North America as a breeding bird, it regularly ranges north and west to the Pacific coast (California to British Columbia) in the fall and winter.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in open and semi-open areas with scattered trees and hedgerows; also frequents scrubby woodland or beach habitats (Howell and Webb 1995).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from southeastern Arizona (rarely extreme southern Texas) south into Mexico.  Withdraws from northern portion of range in winter, when it may be found from Baja California and northern Mexico south throughout its breeding range (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Note relatively large, heavy bill; notched, dark tail lacks any white coloration.  Remarkably similar to Couch's Kingbird, from which it is best distinguished by voice and/or distributional range. (Both this species and Couch's Kingbird were once classified together as one species, the Tropical Kingbird.)

Nest Habits: Nests in trees, generally up to 8-20 feet above the ground.  Nest is a cup-shaped structure built from twigs, moss, small roots, bark, and plant down.

Eggs: 3-5, usually 3-4; 25 mm.; pink or buff in color, with brown and purple markings.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and both sexes care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 15-16 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 18-19 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in scrubby riparian thickets, tropical deciduous forests, along forest edge, and in open areas with scattered trees and hedgerows (A.O.U. 1998; Howell and Webb 1995).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from southern Texas south into Mexico and northern Central America; withdraws from northern part of range in the winter.  Considered a casual visitor to New Mexico, Louisiana, and Florida (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Bill is larger than in Western or Cassin's Kingbird, but not as long as Tropical Kingbird; upperparts are a darker green than seen in Tropical Kingbird.  Otherwise, remarkably similar to Tropical Kingbird, from which it is best distinguished by voice and/or distributional range. (Both this species and Tropical Kingbird were once classified together as one species, the Tropical Kingbird.)

Nest Habits: Nests in trees, generally up to 8-20 feet above the ground.  Nest is a cup-shaped structure built from twigs, moss, small roots, bark, and plant down.

Eggs: 3-5, usually 3-4; 25 mm.; pink or buff in color, with brown and purple markings.

Incubation: Incubation period and age when young are first capable of flight are probably similar to Tropical Kingbird, but little information is available.


SECRETS:
In areas where the range of this species overlaps with the Western Kingbird, note the darker breast and upperparts, concentrate on the tail coloration patterns, and (when possible) listen for vocalizations, which are diagnostic.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in dry grasslands, and in riparian or pinyon-juniper-oak woodland habitats; also frequents pine-oak woodlands in the winter (A.O.U 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from central California, southern Nevada, southern Utah, central and eastern Wyoming, southeastern Montana, and southwestern South Dakota south to extreme western Oklahoma, western Texas, into Mexico, and northwestern Baja California; winters primarily from southern Baja California and northern Mexico south throughout its breeding range to Central America (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Compare closely with Western Kingbird; voice, which includes an emphatic 'che-bew!', readily separates the two species.  Other good field marks include the darker gray breast color; and the dark brown tail, which lacks the white outer tail feathers of the Western Kingbird and instead has buff terminal edge to tip of tail.

Nest Habits: Nests in trees, generally up to 20-55 feet above the ground.  Nest is a cup-shaped structure built from twigs, small roots, bark, and leaves.  Nest is lined with grass and plant down.

Eggs: 2-5, usually 3-4; 23 mm.; white to cream-white in color, with brown markings.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and both sexes care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 18-19 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 16-17 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in semi-open areas (usually with scattered trees and hedges), within woodlands or plantations, and along woodland edge (Howell and Webb 1995).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from southeastern Arizona and southwestern New Mexico south into Mexico.  Withdraws from northern portion of range in the winter, when it may also be found south to Central America (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: A relatively large kingbird, with comparatively massive, black bill.  Note also grayish-white breast; belly is nearly the same color, but may show a tinge of pale yellow, especially in the fall when yellow becomes more obvious on the belly.  Upperparts and head are dark, brownish-gray, with darker patch surrounding the eye.

Nest Habits: Nests in trees, generally up to 50-60 feet above the ground.  Nest is a frail, cup-shaped structure built from twigs and grasses.

Eggs: 3-4; white in color, with brown markings.

Incubation: Little information is known.


SECRETS:
Once the basic plumage patterns of the Western Kingbird are learned, begin focusing on how this species differs from the Cassin's, Couch's, & Tropical Kingbirds; eventually, you'll learn the subtle differences between all of these species.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in open areas (usually with scattered trees), including savanna-like habitats and agricultural lands (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: A bird of western North America.  Breeding range extends along the Pacific coast from southern interior British Columbia south to northern Baja California and northern Mexico; and east to western Minnesota and south-central Texas.  Migrates to southern Mexico and Central America for the winter, when it may also be found in small numbers along the Atlantic and Gulf coasts.  Fall migration regularly features a small number of individuals in northeastern North America (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Typical plumage includes pale gray breast and head, yellowish underparts, short, black bill, a black tail with white outer tail feathers, and pale gray back.  In flight, white outer tail feathers are easily seen.  Song is a series of harsh, twittering notes, rapidly given.

Nest Habits: Nests in trees, shrubs, or sometimes on a variety of man-made structures (e.g., utility poles).  Nest is generally placed up to 8-40 feet above the ground, and is a cup-shaped structure built from twigs, small roots, and plant down; and lined with sheep's wool, animal hair, and other materials.

Eggs: 3-7, usually 3-4; 24 mm.; white, pink, or buff in color, with brown markings.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and both sexes care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 18-19 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 16-17 days old.


SECRETS:
Long outer tail feathers are unmatched in appearance by any other North American bird with the exception of the closely related Fork-tailed Flycatcher.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in open areas, including grassland, scrub, or savanna habitats (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from eastern New Mexico, southeastern Colorado, southern Nebraska, central Missouri, and central Arkansas south to western Louisiana, southern Texas, and northern Mexico.  Migrates to central Mexico south to Central America for the winter.  Known to wander, has been reported from many locations in North America outside its known breeding range (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Unmistakable; by themselves, the long outer tail feathers (longer in male than female) are diagnostic.  Note pale grayish-white body, with pinkish-red coloration on axillaries, wing linings, and flanks.

Nest Habits: Nests in trees or shrubs, or even on man-made structures (e.g., utility pole).  Nest is generally placed up to 5-30 or more feet above the ground.  Nest is a cup-shaped structure built from weed stems, twigs, moss, small roots, and cotton; and lined with animal hair and small roots.

Eggs: 3-6, usually 3-5; 23 mm.; white or cream-white in color, with brown markings.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and both sexes care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 14-17 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 14-16 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in open areas, including seasonally wet grasslands; or scrub, agricultural, or savanna habitats (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Native to Mexico, Central America, and South America; considered a casual visitor to North America, where it has been found in many states and Canadian provinces, predominantly from the eastern side of the continent (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: In shape, similar to Scissor-tailed Flycatcher, but note dark cap, white underparts, and white wing linings.

Nest Habits: Does not breed in the United States.


SECRETS:
May form large flocks in migration; counts of several hundred or 1000 or more birds have been reported. One report from near Memphis, TN, in 1937 documented 5000 birds on 5 Sept. 1937!

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in open areas (usually with scattered trees or shrubs), including agricultural lands with hedgerows (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from southwestern and northeastern British Columbia and southern Mackenzie east across northern Saskatchewan, central Manitoba, and central Ontario east to Nova Scotia and southwestern Newfoundland; and south to western Washington, eastern Oregon, northern Utah, Colorado, central New Mexico, and west-central & eastern Texas east along the Gulf coast to southern Florida.  Migrates to South America for the winter (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: White underparts, blackish upperparts with grayish-white edgings to wing feathers.  Note the dark tail which is tipped with white.  Song has a buzzy, sputtering quality; given as a single call note or series of such notes.

Nest Habits: Nests in trees or shrubs, generally up to 8-25 or more feet above the ground.  Nest is a cup-shaped structure built from twigs, straw, feathers, plant down, and weed stems; and lined with grasses, animal hair, and small roots.

Eggs: 2-5, usually 3-4; 24 mm.; white to cream-white or pinkish-white in color, with brown markings.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and both sexes care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 16-18 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 16-18 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in open or semi-open areas (usually with scattered trees or scrubby habitats); also frequents mangrove forests and the edge of tropical lowland evergreen forests (A.O.U. 1998; Howell and Webb 1995).

Distribution: Breeding range includes the West Indies and extreme southeastern United States (i.e., the Florida Keys, southern Alabama, islands off the coast of Mississippi, and in the interior of the Florida peninsula).  Generally winters in the West Indies, Central America, and northern South America.  Occasionally wanders beyond breeding range on Atlantic and Gulf coasts (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Pale white underparts, light gray upperparts, with darker facial mask surrounding the eye.  Note thick bill, and forked tail.

Nest Habits: Nests in trees or shrubs, generally up to 3-12 or more feet above the ground.  Nest is a frail, cup-shaped structure built from twigs and small roots and lined with grasses.

Eggs: 3-5, usually 3-4; 25 mm.; pink in color, with brown markings.

Incubation: Little information is known.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in tropical lowland evergreen forests and in pine forests (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Native to the Bahamas and the West Indies; considered a casual visitor to southern Florida (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Pale white underparts, grayish-olive back, slate-colored wings (with buffy edges to feathers), blackish head, and dark tail tipped with buff-white.  Bill is relatively long and thick.

Nest Habits: Does not breed in the United States.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found along forest edge and in secondary forest habitats (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Native to South America; considered accidental in Maine, Tennessee, and in southern Florida (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Compare with Sulphur-bellied Flycatcher; note smaller size, smaller bill, and contrasting facial stripes; not as heavily streaked on underparts as in Sulphur-bellied.  Back is somewhat mottled in appearance, but not streaked as in Sulphur-bellied.  Tail has reddish edges to it.

Nest Habits: Does not breed in North America.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in forested areas, along forest edge, and in clearings (Howell and Webb 1995).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from southeastern Arizona south into Mexico and Central America.  Migrates to South America for the winter (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Rufous-colored rump and tail, creamy-white or yellowish underparts with heavy black streaking, streaked back.

Nest Habits: Nests in tree cavities, generally up to 20-50 feet above the ground.  Nest is a cup-shaped structure built from twigs, leaves, and pine needles.

Eggs: 2-4, usually 3-4; 26 mm.; white or cream-buff in color, with brown or lavender markings.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and both sexes care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 15-16 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 16-18 days old.


SECRETS:
Any birding trip to southern Texas must include plans to get this large, brilliantly-colored flycatcher; look for it in the lower Rio Grande valley where it is fairly common.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in second-growth habitats, along forest edge, and in open or semi-open situations with hedges or scattered trees; usually near water (Howell and Webb 1995).

Distribution: This species is resident from southern Texas south into Mexico, Central America, and South America.  Occasionally found north of this range in the southern United States (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Black-and-white striped head, thick, black bill, yellowish underparts (with white throat), and light rufous wash to brown wings and tail.

Nest Habits: Nests in trees or shrubs, generally up to 10-30 or more feet above the ground.  Nest is a bulky, spherical-shaped structure with a side entrance; it is built from grasses and other plant materials.

Eggs: 3-6, usually 4-5; 28 mm.; cream-white in color, lightly marked with brown.

Incubation: Little information is known.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found along forest edge and in forest clearings; also frequents riparian groves and more open situations with scattered trees or hedges (Howell and Webb 1995).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from southeastern Arizona and southern Texas south into Mexico and Central America; withdraws from extreme northern portion of breeding range in the winter (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Grayish-white underparts (buff-colored in female), gray upperparts (brown in female); male has blackish-gray head and rose-colored throat patch.  Song is somewhat elaborate and chattering, ending with a high-pitched, descending 'seeee' or 'seeoo' note.

Nest Habits: Nests in trees, generally up to 30-60 feet above the ground.  Nest is a globular or spherical-shaped structure with side entrance; it is built from bark, grasses, leaves, lichens, spider webs, and small roots; and is lined with feathers.

Eggs: 2-6; 23 mm.; white to cream-white in color, with brown markings.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and both sexes care for the young.  Young are capable of flight when they are about 19 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in evergreen forests and secondary forest habitats (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Native to Mexico, Central America, and South America; considered accidental in southern Texas (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Thick bill is pinkish at base, darker at tip.  Note pinkish lores and spectacles.  Grayish-white in color (some females are brownish-gray on back and head), with black wings, and a short tail with black and white or black and gray bands.  Male has black forehead and feathers surrounding the eye.

Nest Habits: Does not breed in the United States.


SECRETS:
Pinyon Jays often travel in flocks, when their loud calls betray their presence, even at great distances; they noisily mob owls in the daytime hours when one is found.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Breeds in pinyon-juniper woodlands; also frequents scrub-oak and sagebrush habitats in the non-breeding season (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from central Oregon, southern Idaho, central Montana, and western South Dakota south (through eastern California) to northern Baja California, southern Nevada, east-central Arizona, central New Mexico, and western Oklahoma.  Generally winters throughout its breeding range, but may wander in all directions, including coastal California, Iowa, southern Washington, and northern Mexico (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Overall light bluish color, with no crest.  Note white streakings on throat.

Nest Habits: Breeds in colonies.  Nests in trees, generally up to 3-20 or more feet above the ground.  Nest is a cup-shaped structure built from twigs, bark, small roots, grasses, and animal hair.

Eggs: 3-6, usually 4-5; 29 mm.; bluish- or greenish-white in color.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and both sexes care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 16-17 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 21 days old.


SECRETS:
The Blue Jay is the most migratory of North American jays, with northern-most populations returning to southern portions of breeding range in winter; this behavior may also help explain irregular appearance of Blue Jays on west coast.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in forested areas, open woodlands, and park-like settings, including urban and suburban residential areas.

Distribution: Breeding range extends along the Atlantic coast from Nova Scotia and Newfoundland south to southern Florida; and west to northern Alberta, east-central British Columbia, Montana, northern Wyoming, eastern Colorado, east-central New Mexico, and southeastern Texas.  Withdraws from northern portion of range in winter (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Most artistic depictions of 'blue' jays feature this species; ironically in the west non-birders and novice birders alike sometimes refer to the Steller's and Scrub Jays as Blue Jays!  When identifying the Blue Jay, note the pale gray underparts with bluish-black, v-shaped necklace; bluish upperparts, with black barring and white spotting on wings and tail; and the blue crest.  This bird features a variety of calls, even imitations of hawks.

Nest Habits: Nests in trees or shrubs, generally up to 5-50 feet above the ground.  Nest is a bulky, cup-shaped structure built from twigs, bark, mosses, lichens, leaves, grasses, and other materials; and lined with fine rootlets.

Eggs: 3-7, usually 4-5; 28 mm.; olive, buff, pale green, or dull blue in color, with brown and gray markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs (however, mostly by female) and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 16-18 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 17-21 days old.


SECRETS:
The calls of the Steller's Jay and Western Scrub-Jay are, at first, confusing.  Spend time concentrating on the vocalizations of both species; in time, you, too, will be able to easily separate these two species by voice alone!

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in coniferous and mixed coniferous-deciduous forests; typically inhabits more densely forested areas than the open woodlands and scrub-like habitats of the Western Scrub-Jay.

Distribution: Resident breeding range extends from south-coastal & southeastern Alaska east and south to: central British Columbia, southwestern Alberta, western Montana, Wyoming, Colorado, central New Mexico, western Texas, Mexico and Central America, Arizona, and southern California (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: A stunning, deep blue over most of plumage, darkest on head and face.  Like its closely related relative, the Blue Jay, the Steller's Jay also sports a distinctive crest.  Listen for its loud, repetitive cries in woodlands and forests; somewhat inquisitive, they often approach humans closely, especially in highly visited travel locations, campgrounds, and rest stops where jays have been fed by human visitors.

Nest Habits: Nests in trees, generally up to 8-25 or more feet above the ground.  Nest is a bulky, cup-shaped structure built from twigs, leaves, and mud; and lined with fine rootlets, grass, or pine needles.

Eggs: 2-6, usually 4; 30 mm.; light blue or light greenish-blue in color, and lightly marked with brown.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and both sexes care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 16 days.


SECRETS:
This species was formerly classified (with the Island and Western Scrub-Jays) as the Scrub Jay.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in oak scrub with intermittently scattered pines (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: This species is resident locally in the Florida peninsula; formerly more widespread, but now declining (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Basic plumage pattern for 'Scrub' Jays include blue head, blue wings, blue tail, a variable amount of white above the eye, grayish underparts with white-streaked throat and bluish breast band, and variably colored grayish or brownish patch on back.  The Florida Scrub-Jay features a more lightly colored (whitish-blue) forehead.

Nest Habits: Assumed to be similar to Western Scrub-Jay, but clutch size averages 3-4 eggs; incubation averages 16-19 days.  Young birds (from previously successful nesting attempts) assist parents in rearing of young for several years.


SECRETS:
This species was formerly classified (with the Florida and Western Scrub-Jays) as the Scrub Jay.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in open oak woodlands (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: This species is endemic to Santa Cruz Island (in the Channel Islands of California).

Field Marks: Basic plumage pattern for 'Scrub' Jays include blue head, blue wings, blue tail, a variable amount of white above the eye, grayish underparts with white-streaked throat and bluish breast band, and variably colored grayish or brownish patch on back.  The Island Scrub-Jay is larger than the similar Western Scrub-Jay.

Nest Habits: Assumed to be similar to Western Scrub-Jay.


SECRETS:
The calls of the Western Scrub-Jay and the Steller's Jay are, at first, confusing.  Spend time concentrating on the vocalizations of both species; in time, you, too, will be able to easily separate these two species by voice alone!

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in brushy or scrubby habitats; also frequents chaparral, pine-oak woodlands, park-like settings, and urban or suburban residential areas; typically in less densely forested areas than habitats preferred by the Steller's Jay.

Distribution: Two forms are known: a coastal and an interior form.  Coastal form is resident from southwestern Washington south through western and central Oregon, California, and northwestern & west-central Nevada to southern Baja California; interior form is resident from southeastern Oregon, southern Idaho, southern Wyoming, western & southern Colorado, and extreme western Oklahoma south to eastern California, southern Arizona, Mexico, and western and central Texas (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Basic plumage pattern for 'Scrub' Jays include blue head, blue wings, blue tail, a variable amount of white above the eye, grayish underparts with white-streaked throat and bluish breast band, and variably colored grayish or brownish patch on back.  Coastal form has a darker, richer blue color than the duller interior form.

Nest Habits: Nests in trees or shrubs, generally up to 2-30 feet above the ground.  Nest is a bulky, cup-shaped structure built from twigs and moss and lined with small rootlets and animal hair.

Eggs: 2-7, usually 3-6; 28 mm.; light green with reddish-brown or reddish-green markings.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and both sexes care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 15-17 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 18-19 days old.


SECRETS:
Formerly known as Gray-breasted Jay; some may also refer to it as the Arizona Jay.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in pine-oak, oak, and juniper woodlands, and along woodland edge; usually in arid to semi-arid environments (Howell and Webb 1995).

Distribution: This species is resident from central Arizona, southwestern New Mexico, and western Texas south into Mexico (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Upperparts are blue; underparts are pale gray; lacks white eyebrow and the bluish collar or necklace seen in the Scrub-Jays.  Note dark auricular patch.

Nest Habits: May breed in loose communal colonies, in which about 2 pairs breed each year while the remaining birds help raise the young.  Nests in trees, generally up to 6-50 feet above the ground.  Nest is a bulky, cup-shaped structure built from twigs and small roots and lined with grasses and animal hair.

Eggs: 3-7, usually 4-5; 30 mm.; grayish-green in color.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and both sexes care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 16-18 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 24-25 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in forests and along woodland edge; also frequents scrubby woodlands (Howell and Webb 1995).

Distribution: This species is resident from southern Texas south into Mexico and Central America (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Unmistakable; boldly colored with blue, black, green, lemon, and yellow colors.

Nest Habits: Breeds in loose communal flocks, consisting of closely related individuals; typically, one pair breeds each year, while the other birds help in defense of nesting territory and (in Central America) the rearing of young.  Nests in shrubs or trees, generally up to 5-15 or more feet above the ground.  Nest is a bulky, cup-shaped structure built from twigs and small roots and lined with mosses, grasses, and leaves.

Eggs: 3-5, usually 4; 27 mm.; buff, grayish-white, or greenish-white in color, with brown or gray markings.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and both sexes care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 17-18 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 19-22 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in forests and along woodland edge, in somewhat more open situations with scattered trees and hedges, and in second-growth habitats (Howell and Webb 1995).

Distribution: This species is resident from extreme southern Texas south into Mexico and Central America (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Note very large size (for a jay); heavy bill; mostly dark brown in color except for pale gray belly and undertail coverts.

Nest Habits: Complex breeding system, consisting of flocks numbering 6-15 birds; may either have one breeding pair per flock, or a single brood resulting from more than one female; remaining birds help rear the young.  Nests in trees or shrubs, generally up to 23-70 feet above the ground.  Nest is a cup-shaped structure built from twigs and lined with vegetation.

Eggs: 1-8, usually 3-5; bluish-gray in color and heavily flecked with brown markings.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and both sexes care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 18-20 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 22-31 days old.


SECRETS:
This is the species cited most often when we talk of birds as 'camp robbers'; this curious (and notably tame) jay boldly confiscates food and other materials from camp sites. In fact, another name for the Gray Jay is camp robber.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in coniferous and mixed deciduous-coniferous forests; also frequents open or partly open woodlands or bog habitats (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: This species is resident from Alaska and northern Yukon east across northern Mackenzie, southwestern Keewatin, northern Manitoba, northern Ontario, and northern Quebec east to Labrador and Newfoundland; and south to British Columbia (extending even further south through Washington and Oregon to northern California), Idaho, Utah, east-central Arizona, north-central New Mexico, central Colorado, and southwestern South Dakota; and further east, south to central Saskatchewan, southern Manitoba, the Great Lakes region, and northern New York east to Nova Scotia (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Note short bill; variably dark grayish upperparts, head color varies from pale gray to dark gray or grayish-brown, but always with grayish-white forehead; dusky-gray to light gray underparts.

Nest Habits: Nests in trees, generally up to 4-30 or more feet above the ground.  Nest is a bulky, cup-shaped structure built from twigs, bark, mosses, spider's silk, and grasses; and lined with pine needles, grass, animal hair, and feathers.

Eggs: 2-5, usually 3-4; 29 mm.; pale gray or pale green (rarely white) in color, with brown and gray markings.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and both sexes care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 16-18 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 15 days old.


SECRETS:
Some authorities consider this species and the similar Yellow-billed Magpie to be representatives of the same species.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in open areas, usually with scattered trees; in riparian woodlands and open woodlands, or along woodland edge; also frequents agricultural areas (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Resident breeding range extends from southern Alaska and southern Yukon east across northern Alberta, central Saskatchewan, central Manitoba, and extreme southwestern Ontario to northern Minnesota; and south to east-central California (absent from central valley of California), south-central Nevada, Utah, extreme northeastern Arizona, northern New Mexico, and western Oklahoma.  Known to wander, and is irregularly recorded outside of its normal range (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Note large size, long tail, and black-white-green color pattern.  Black bill distinguishes it from closely related Yellow-billed Magpie.

Nest Habits: Breeds in scattered colonies.  Nests in trees or shrubs, generally up to 5-30 or more feet above the ground.  Nest is a very large, bulky, spherical structure built from twigs, mud, small roots, other vegetation, and animal hair.

Eggs: 1-13, usually 5-8; 33 mm.; greenish-gray in color, with brown markings.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and both sexes care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 16-21 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 25-29 days old.


SECRETS:
Compared to the Black-billed Magpie, this species is not known to wander; few records exist outside of its normal range, but it may stray north to northern California.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in open oak woodlands or oak-savanna habitats; also in riparian woodlands and agricultural areas.

Distribution: Endemic to California, where it is resident in the Sacramento and San Joaquin valleys, as well as in the valleys of the coast ranges from San Francisco south to Santa Barbara County (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Note large size, long tail, and black-white-green color pattern.  Yellow bill and partial yellow eye ring distinguish it from closely related Black-billed Magpie.

Nest Habits: Breeds in loose colonies.  Nests in trees, generally up to 40-60 feet above the ground.  Nest is a large, bulky, spherical structure built from twigs, mud, small roots, and animal hair.

Eggs: 5-8, usually 7; 31 mm.; grayish-yellow to pale olive-buff in color, with brown markings.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and both sexes care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 16-18 days.


SECRETS:
A somewhat irruptive species, the Clark's Nutcracker may appear in some winters into areas where it is not normally seen (e.g., along the California coast or in desert habitats).

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in a variety of habitats ranging from open coniferous forests and forest edge to forest clearings or exposed ridges or mountain faces; usually at high elevations (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: This species is resident from south-central British Columbia, southwestern Alberta, western & central Montana, western and southeastern Wyoming, and southwestern South Dakota south to central and eastern California, Nevada, east-central Arizona, and southern New Mexico.  Disjunct populations also exist in northern Baja California and in northern Mexico; known to wander, and is irregularly recorded in all directions away from normal range (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Overall grayish in color, except for black wings, white secondaries, and white-and-black tail.

Nest Habits: Nests in trees, generally up to 8-50 or more feet above the ground.  Nest is a cup-shaped structure built from twigs and bark and lined with grasses, pine needles, animal hair, and feathers.

Eggs: 2-6, usually 2-4; 32 mm.; light green to grayish-green in color, with brown and gray markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 16-18 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 18-21 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in open woodlands and in residential areas (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Native to Europe, Asia, and Africa; considered a casual visitor to northeastern North America, where birds first began appearing in 1983; from southern Ontario, southeastern Quebec, and Nova Scotia south to Rhode Island and Pennsylvania.  It is thought that most birds are the result of individuals who were assisted by ships across the Atlantic Ocean (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Smaller than American Crow, with pale gray nape and side of face (behind the eye); also note light-colored eyes.

Nest Habits: Does not breed in North America, but breeding was once suspected in Pennsylvania (A.O.U. 1998).


SECRETS:
Much discussion has surrounded the taxonomy of the Northwestern Crow; it is closely related to the American Crow and it may eventually be proven that both crows are representatives of the same species.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in coastal areas, and also in or near coniferous woodland or along woodland edge; also frequents agricultural areas and urban or suburban environments (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: This species has a limited distribution, ranging from south coastal and southeastern Alaska south through western British Columbia to northwestern Washington (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Slightly smaller than American Crow; however, best distinguished by geographic range.

Nest Habits: Often breeds in small colonies.  Nests in trees or shrubs, generally up to 8-20 or more feet above the ground; but sometimes on ground.  Nest is a cup-shaped structure built from twigs and mud; and lined with bark, grass, and animal hair.

Eggs: 4-5; 40 mm.; greenish-blue in color, with brown markings.

Incubation: It is thought that only the female incubates the eggs.  Both sexes care for the young.


SECRETS:
The 'caw' of the crow is distinctly different from the low, deep croaks that Common Ravens give; this is yet another way to distinguish these two species.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in open forests and woodlands, but also frequents residential areas and agricultural areas, and ranges into open or partly open country with scattered trees.

Distribution: Widespread.  Breeding range extends from extreme southeastern Alaska and north-central British Columbia east across southwestern Mackenzie, northern Saskatchewan, northern Manitoba, and northern Ontario east to Newfoundland; and south (excluding the immediate Pacific coastal area from British Columbia to northwestern Washington) to extreme northwestern Baja California, central Arizona, southern New Mexico, central and southeastern Texas, the Gulf coast, and southern Florida.  Northern populations are migratory; generally winters from southern Canada south throughout its breeding range, ranging further south to southern Arizona and the Florida Keys (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Black overall, with smaller bill than Common Raven; also note rectangular-shaped tail (compared to raven's wedge-shaped tail).  Deep steady wing beats; does not soar as frequently as does Common Raven.

Nest Habits: Usually nests in trees, but also in shrubs or even on ground; generally up to 18-60 or more feet above the ground.  Nest is a cup-shaped structure built from branches and twigs and lined with bark, mosses, roots, leaves, and other materials.

Eggs: 3-9, usually 4-6; 41 mm.; bluish-green to olive-green in color, with brown and gray markings.

Incubation: It is thought that both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 18 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 28-35 days old.


SECRETS:
This species and the similar Sinaloa Crow, which is restricted to the Pacific coast of Mexico, were once classified as one species: the Mexican Crow.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in open and semi-open habitats, with trees and hedges; also frequents cities, towns, and garbage dumps (Howell and Webb 1995).

Distribution: This species is resident along the Gulf coast from extreme southern Texas (i.e., the Brownsville area) south into Mexico (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Note glossy, purplish-black coloration to plumage; smaller than American Crow.  Call is a low-pitched croak, different from the 'caw' of the American Crow.

Nest Habits: Does not breed in the United States.


SECRETS:
Range overlaps that of American Crow; in this region of overlap, identification is best made by voice (but note young American Crows sound like Fish Crows!).

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: In coastal areas, typically found along beaches, bays, and lagoons; but also in adjacent woodlands and in swamps; further inland, closely associated with major rivers and primary tributaries (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: This species is resident from New York and Massachusetts south along the Atlantic coast to southern Florida; and from there west along the Gulf coast to southern Texas; also ranges inland (along major rivers) to Louisiana, eastern Oklahoma, southeastern Kansas, southeastern Missouri, southern Illinois, southwestern Kentucky and western Tennessee, central Georgia, the Carolinas, central Virginia, central Maryland, eastern West Virginia, and central Pennsylvania (A.O.U. 1998); withdraws from some of these inland areas during the winter.

Field Marks: Slightly smaller than American Crow, but otherwise outwardly similar to that species.  Voice is more nasal than American Crow.

Nest Habits: May breed in small colonies.  Nests in trees or shrubs, generally up to 6-90 feet above the ground.  Nest is a cup-shaped structure built from sticks and twigs and lined with bark, pine needles, and animal hair.

Eggs: 4-5; 37 mm.; green or greenish-blue in color, with brown markings.

Incubation: It is thought that both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 16-18 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 21 days old.


SECRETS:
Formerly known as the White-necked Raven; this species tends to be more gregarious than Common Raven; however, beware that Common Ravens also form flocks from time to time. Rely on call to identify birds in range of overlap.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in open grasslands and scrub habitats (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from south-central and southeastern Arizona, central and northeastern New Mexico, southeastern Colorado, western Kansas, western Oklahoma, and central & southern Texas south into Mexico.  Withdraws from northern portion of range in winter (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Slightly smaller in size than Common Raven (both of these species are nearly identical to one another); base of neck feathers are white (rather than gray), but this field mark is essentially useless in the field except under the most ideal of conditions.  Instead, it is recommended that identification be made by voice; although this raven's call also has a croak-like quality, it is higher pitched and less variable than the calls of the Common Raven.

Nest Habits: Nests in trees or shrubs, but also on man-made structures such as windmills; generally up to 4-40 feet above the ground.  Nest is a cup-shaped structure built from thorny twigs (and occasionally even barbed wire) and lined with bark, animal hair, grasses, and other materials.

Eggs: 3-8, usually 5-7; 44 mm.; pale green or grayish-green in color, usually with brown and lavender markings.

Incubation: It is thought that both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 21 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 30 days old.


SECRETS:
Based on the behavior of some members of the Corvidae family, some scientists have postulated that birds in this family have evolved mental abilities that are greater than those seen in other birds. The raven has a holarctic distribution.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Frequents a wide variety of habitats, ranging from cities and towns to desert habitats to mountainous or hilly environments; partial to cliff faces, where it prefers to nest (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Widespread.  Resident breeding range extends from Greenland and the Canadian arctic south to Alaska and throughout most of Canada; in the west, range continues south to California, Baja California, and Mexico, and throughout the Rocky Mountains to western Oklahoma, western & central Texas, and Montana; further east, range continues south to central Saskatchewan, southern Manitoba, the Great Lakes region, and New York east to the New England states, Nova Scotia, and Newfoundland.  Range extends south locally in the Appalachian Mountains to South Carolina and Georgia (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Black overall; note comparatively large size and thick, massive bill.  Utters a variety of low, guttural, croaks.  In flight, wedge-shaped tail and tendency to soar distinguish it from American Crow.

Nest Habits: Nests on rock ledge of cliff face or in trees; but may also use man-made structures such as utility poles; generally up to 45-80 or more feet above the ground.  Nest is a large, bulky, cup-shaped structure built from branches and twigs and lined with bark, animal hair, mosses, grasses, lichens, and other materials.

Eggs: 3-7, usually 4-6; 50 mm.; pale green or greenish-gray in color, with brown markings.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and both sexes care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 18-21 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 38-44 days old.


SECRETS:
The song of the Bell's Vireo is easily learned: it sounds like a scratchy walky-talky, and is a rapid jumble of notes; each series of notes alternately ends with up- or down-slurred phrases.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in willow and streamside thickets, dense brushy habitats, and scrub oak; usually near water (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from southern California, southern Nevada, southwestern Utah, northwestern and east-central Arizona, and southern New Mexico south into Mexico and northern Baja California; further east, breeding range extends from northeastern Colorado, western North Dakota, southeastern Minnesota, southern Wisconsin, northwestern and central Indiana, and southwestern Michigan south to southern and eastern Texas, north-central Louisiana, Arkansas, southwestern Tennessee, southwestern Kentucky, southern Indiana, and western Ohio.  Migrates to southern Baja California and Mexico, and south to Central America for the winter (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Plumage varies from grayish upperparts and whitish underparts (west coast form) to greenish above with yellowish underparts (interior form), with some populations being intermediate between these extremes.  Note ill-defined wing bars and spectacles surrounding the eye.  Song is a rapid jumble of notes, alternately ending with up and down-slurred phrases.

Nest Habits: Nests in shrubs or trees, generally up to 1-10 or more feet above the ground.  Nest is a cup-shaped structure built from leaves, bark, and other vegetation and lined with plant down, grasses, and animal hair.

Eggs: 3-5, usually 4; 18 mm.; white in color, sometimes with brown or black markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 14 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 11-12 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in dense thickets and scrub oak, usually on rocky hillsides (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from south-central Kansas, south through west-central Oklahoma and western and central Texas to northern Mexico; generally winters in western and southern Mexico (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Note black cap (less distinct on female), bold white spectacles, and yellowish wing bars, sides, and flanks.

Nest Habits: Nests in trees, generally up to 1-15 feet above the ground.  Nest is a cup-shaped structure built from leaves, bark, grasses, and spider' silk and lined with fine grasses.

Eggs: 3-5, usually 4; 18 mm.; white.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 14-17 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 10-12 days old.


SECRETS:
In the western U.S., compare the songs of the Hutton's Vireo with the Oak Titmouse. Note the more persistent and repetitive nature of the Hutton's Vireo song. Hutton's Vireo also has a squealing, whinny-like call.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in pine-oak, oak, and riparian woodlands (A.O.U. 1998), often not far from water.

Distribution: This non-migratory vireo is resident along the west coast from southwestern British Columbia south to northwestern Baja California and locally in southern Baja California; further east, it is resident from central Arizona, southwestern New Mexico, and western Texas south into Mexico and Central America (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Compare with Ruby-crowned Kinglet; note that Hutton's Vireo lacks the kinglet's black patch below the second wing bar.  Also note the thicker bill; lores and eye ring are whitish in color, but eye ring is broken above the eye.  Overall color is grayer in southwestern birds, more green in west coast populations.

Nest Habits: Nests in trees or shrubs, generally up to 6-35 feet above the ground.  Nest is a cup-shaped structure built from moss and spider's silk and lined with fine grasses.

Eggs: 3-5, usually 4; 18 mm.; white in color and lightly marked with brown.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 14 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 14 days old.


SECRETS:
This persistent singer is often heard long before it is seen; songs include 'chick-chuweo-chick' or 'Stick-it-in-your-ear-chick!'; one study documented 614 different song types for this species!

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in dense undergrowth, and in old fields and second-growth areas dominated by a variety of shrubs, young trees, and thickets.

Distribution: Breeding range extends along the Atlantic coast from southern New York and southern Massachusetts south to southern Florida; and west to central Iowa, eastern Kansas, central Oklahoma, west-central & southern Texas, and Mexico.  Generally winters from extreme southeastern Virginia and the southern portions of the Gulf states and central Texas south into Mexico, Central America, and the Bahamas (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Note the yellowish wash to sides and flanks; wing bars, grayish head, bright eyes (in adults), and yellowish spectacles.

Nest Habits: Nests in small trees or shrubs, generally up to 8 feet above the ground.  Nest is a cup-shaped structure built from mosses, lichens, leaves, bark shreds, small sticks, and pieces of wasp nests; and lined with bark strips, fine grasses, plant fibers, plant down, and spider's silk.

Eggs: 3-5, usually 4; 19 mm.; white in color, with dark brown or black markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 12-16 days.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in deciduous and mangrove forests; also frequents lowland scrub habitats (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Native to the Bahamas and West Indies; considered a casual visitor to southern Florida (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Underparts entirely yellow; note also the gray head, black lores, yellowish spectacles, and two prominent wing bars.

Nest Habits: Does not breed in the United States.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in oak-juniper and pinyon-juniper woodlands; also frequents chaparral and scrub habitats; usually in dry or arid situations (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from southern California, southern Nevada, southern Utah, western and southeastern Colorado, and northwestern and central New Mexico south to northwestern Baja California, central and southeastern Arizona, southern New Mexico, and western Texas south into Mexico; generally winters in central and southern Baja California and western Mexico (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Grayish upperparts, pale white underparts; note white eye ring, lores, and two indistinct wing bars.  Compare with songs and plumages of Bell's, Hutton's, and Plumbeous Vireos.

Nest Habits: Nests in trees or shrubs, generally up to 2-8 feet above the ground.  Nest is a cup-shaped structure built from leaves, grasses, bark, plant fibers, and spider's silk; and lined with fine grasses.

Eggs: 3-5, usually 4; 18 mm.; white in color, with brown or black markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 13-14 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 13-14 days old.


SECRETS:
Song is a series of deliberate, whistled phrases, with well-defined pauses between each phrase; it may sound as if the vireo is asking and answering its own question as it sings ('Is that you? Oh, yeah').

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in open coniferous or mixed coniferous-deciduous forests and woodlands (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from northeastern British Columbia and southwestern Mackenzie east across most of Alberta, northern Saskatchewan, central Manitoba, northern Ontario, and southern Quebec to Nova Scotia and southwestern Newfoundland; and south to north-central Minnesota, northern Wisconsin, south-central Indiana, south-central Ohio, and eastern Pennsylvania east to Massachusetts; and locally south in the Appalachian Mountains and Piedmont region of the U.S. to central Georgia and the Carolinas.  Generally winters from central Texas, southern Arkansas, the northern regions of the Gulf states, and southern Virginia south to Florida and into Cuba, Mexico, and Central America (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Typical plumage features bluish-gray head, white spectacles, yellowish wash on sides and flanks of white breast and belly, and two prominent wing bars.

Nest Habits: Nests in trees or shrubs, generally up to 4-30 feet above the ground.  Nest is a cup-shaped structure built from grasses, forbs, bark and other vegetation, and spider's silk; and lined with fine grasses and animal hair.

Eggs: 3-5, usually 4; 20 mm.; white to cream-white in color, and lightly marked with brown or black.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 14 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 14 days old.


SECRETS:
Formerly classified with the Blue-headed and Plumbeous Vireos as the Solitary Vireo.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in open coniferous or mixed coniferous-deciduous woodlands; also frequents pine-oak or oak woodlands (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends along the Pacific coast from southern British Columbia south to northern Baja California, and locally in southern Baja California; and east to southwestern Alberta, western Montana, central Idaho, east-central Oregon, northern California and extreme west-central Nevada, and along the west slope of the Sierra Nevada south to the coastal mountains of southern California.  Generally winters from northwestern Mexico south to Central America; rarely in the southwestern U.S. or in southwestern California (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Similar to Blue-headed Vireo, but paler; note grayish head and tinge of yellow on sides and flanks.

Nest Habits: Nest habits, clutch sizes, and incubation/fledging periods assumed to be similar to Blue-headed Vireo.


SECRETS:
Formerly classified with the Blue-headed and Cassin's Vireos as the Solitary Vireo.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in open yellow pine or pine-oak forests; also frequents oak-scrub habitats and pinyon-juniper or riparian woodlands (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from west-central Nevada, extreme south-central Idaho, northeastern Utah, central & southeastern Montana, southwestern South Dakota, and northwestern Nebraska south throughout the western U.S. (east of the Sierra Nevada mountains and southern California) and into Mexico and Central America; and east to western Texas.  In the winter, it is found from the southwestern U.S. and northwestern Mexico south to Central America (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Similar to Blue-headed Vireo, but grayer overall; yellow on flanks is absent or present in very small amounts.  Well defined wing bars and spectacles separates it from Gray Vireo; but compare the songs of these two species closely.

Nest Habits: Nest habits, clutch sizes, and incubation/fledging periods assumed to be similar to Blue-headed Vireo.


SECRETS:
The song of this species closely resembles the Red-eyed Vireo, but has a burrier or hoarser quality to it.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in mature deciduous forests and riparian woodlands; also frequents mixed deciduous-coniferous woodlands with tall trees (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends along the Atlantic coast from northern New Hampshire and southwestern Maine south to central Florida; and west to southeastern Saskatchewan, central North Dakota, eastern South Dakota, eastern Nebraska, eastern Kansas, eastern Oklahoma, and west-central Texas and the Gulf coast.  Generally winters from extreme southern Florida and Mexico south through the Bahamas, the West Indies, and into northern South America (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Combination of white belly and undertail coverts, olive-green head and back, and yellowish upper breast, throat, and spectacles separate this species from other vireos in its range; however, compare with Pine Warbler.

Nest Habits: Nests in trees, generally up to 3-60 feet above the ground.  Nest is a cup-shaped structure built from grasses, bark, lichens, mosses, and spider's silk; and lined with fine grasses or pine needles.

Eggs: 3-5, usually 4; 18 mm.; white, cream, or pinkish-white in color, with brown or lavender markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 14 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 14 days old.


SECRETS:
Each spring, take the time to study the song of the Philadelphia Vireo; it is nearly identical to Red-eyed Vireo's, but is somewhat slower and higher pitched.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in open deciduous or mixed deciduous-coniferous woodlands, along woodland edge, and in second-growth habitats or thickets along streams or lakes (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from northeastern British Columbia and northern Alberta east across northwestern Saskatchewan, central Manitoba, and northern Ontario east to New Brunswick and southwestern Newfoundland; and south to south-central Alberta, central Saskatchewan, southern Manitoba, north-central North Dakota, the Great Lakes region, and northern New York east to southern Quebec and northern New England.  Migrates to Mexico and Central America for the winter (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Amount of yellow in underparts varies with age and season; adults have yellowish breast and flanks in breeding season, but more yellow in the fall; immatures in the fall also have larger amounts of yellow on underparts.  Note combination of no wing bars, olive-green back, grayish head, and facial pattern: white eyebrow, dark eye line and lores. Compare closely with Warbling Vireo and Tennessee Warbler, both of which show varying amounts of yellow on underparts in the fall.  Song is similar to Red-eyed Vireo.

Nest Habits: Nests in trees, generally up to 10-90 feet above the ground.  Nest is a cup-shaped structure built from grasses, bark, lichens, and spider's silk; and lined with fine grasses, pine needles, and feathers.

Eggs: 3-5, usually 4; 19 mm.; white in color, with dark brown markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 14 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 12-14 days old.


SECRETS:
Don't overlook the importance of learning the song of this common (if not abundant) woodland vireo; by committing its song to memory, it makes it easier to recognize the songs of the Yellow-throated, Philadelphia, and Blue-headed Vireos.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in deciduous and mixed deciduous-coniferous forests, and in riparian or second-growth woodlands; during migration also frequents more open woodland or scrub habitats (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends along the Atlantic coast from Nova Scotia and southern Newfoundland south to southern Florida; and west to west-central and southwestern Mackenzie, southwestern and northeastern British Columbia, northern Oregon, northern Idaho, Wyoming, eastern Colorado, western Oklahoma, eastern and south-central Texas, and the Gulf coast.  Migrates to South America for the winter (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Note combination of olive-brown back, bluish-gray cap, no wing bars, and distinctive facial pattern: dark eye line and white eyebrow bordered above with another dark line.  Red eye is visible when bird is seen at close range or through spotting scope; immature birds have brown eye color.  This is a persistent singer; its simplistic set of short phrases may be given repeatedly for what seems like hours on end; some birds may sing many thousands of phrases in one day.

Nest Habits: Nests in trees or shrubs, generally up to 2-60 feet above the ground.  Nest is a cup-shaped structure built from grasses, lichens, bark, small roots, and spider's silk.

Eggs: 3-5, usually 4; 20 mm.; white in color, and lightly marked with black and brown.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and both sexes care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 11-14 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 10-12 days old.


SECRETS:
This species was formerly classified as a subspecies of the Red-eyed Vireo.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in forest and woodland habitats, including riparian woodlands and along woodland edge (Howell and Webb 1995).

Distribution: Breeding range includes Mexico and Central America; rarely southern Texas.  Migrates to South America for the winter (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Similar to Red-eyed Vireo, but has poorly defined black lines on side of face and has obvious yellow wash on sides, flanks, and undertail coverts; back is also paler, with a olive-yellow hue.

Nest Habits: Nests in trees or shrubs, generally up to 6-40 feet above the ground.  Nest is a cup-shaped structure.

Eggs: 2-4, usually 3; white in color, with brown markings.

Incubation: Incubation lasts approximately 13-14 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 12-14 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in deciduous, evergreen, and mangrove forests and along woodland edge (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range includes central and southern Florida, the Bahamas, and the West Indies; it is thought that this species winters in South America (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Similar to Red-eyed Vireo, but has gray crown and black whisker mark.

Nest Habits: Nests in trees or shrubs, generally up to 3-20 feet above the ground.  Nest is a cup-shaped structure built from spider's silk, grasses, lichens, and other vegetation; and lined with fine grass, animal hair, and pine needles.

Eggs: 2-3, usually 3; 21 mm.; white in color, with small brown markings.

Incubation: It is thought that female incubates the eggs and both sexes care for the young.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in scrubby woodland and along woodland edge; also frequents mangrove forests (Howell and Webb 1995).

Distribution: Native to the Cayman Islands, and the Yucatan peninsula south into Central America and adjacent islands; considered accidental in southeastern Texas (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Grayish-olive upperparts, pale white underparts, bold white eyebrow, and dark eye line.

Nest Habits: Does not breed in the United States.


SECRETS:
The key to remembering the song of the Warbling Vireo (especially of eastern birds) is that it sounds somewhat like this: 'If I see you, I'll seize you, and squeeze you until you pop!' Compare to song of Purple Finch.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in open deciduous or mixed deciduous-coniferous woodlands, in riparian forests and thickets, and in a variety of more open, park-like situations (A.O.U. 1998); usually near water.

Distribution: Breeds throughout the United States except southeast California, southwest Arizona, central Texas, and the extreme southeastern U.S.  In Canada (and Alaska), breeding range extends from southeastern Alaska and northern British Columbia east across west-central and southwestern Mackenzie, northern Alberta, central Saskatchewan, southern Manitoba, western and southern Ontario, and extreme southwestern Quebec east to New Brunswick.  Migrates to Mexico and Central America for the winter (A.O.U. 1998).  Two subspecies are known, and the well-tuned ear can hear the differences (vocally) between western and eastern birds; some scientists treat them as two separate species.

Field Marks: This drab vireo is best identified on the basis of its dullness: gray or olive gray upperparts and white underparts, lack of wing bars, white eyebrow, and dark eye line (mostly in back of eye; compare with Philadelphia Vireo).  In the fall, compare also with Tennessee Warbler, especially since yellowish wash may appear on the sides and flanks of Warbling Vireos at this time of year.

Nest Habits: Nests in trees or shrubs, generally up to 4-60 or more feet above the ground.  Nest is a cup-shaped structure built from bark, leaves, grasses, and other vegetation.

Eggs: 3-5, usually 4; 19 mm.; white in color, with brown and black markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 12 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 16 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in deciduous and coniferous woodlands (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Native to Asia and India; considered casual or accidental in Alaska and California (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Reddish-brown crown, back, wings, and tail; black mask bordered above by narrow white eyebrow and below by white throat; underparts are buffy-brown; female similar, with dusky vermiculations on sides of breast and flanks.

Nest Habits: Does not breed in North America.


SECRETS:
Although the Loggerhead Shrike expanded into the Great Lakes region, New England, and eastern Canada during the 19th century, its populations in these areas has experienced significant declines in the last 70-80 years (Lefranc 1997).

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: This species breeds on lowland plains or gently rolling hills, usually below an elevation of 2000 m, where it is found in semi-open country typified by areas with short-grass and bare soil; also usually present are thorny shrubs or low-hanging trees.  These conditions are present in a variety of situations, ranging from agricultural farmlands and pastures to desert scrub, residential areas, old fields, or orchards (Lefranc 1997).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from California (except northwestern corner of state) north to eastern Oregon, eastern Washington, and central Alberta; and from there east to central Saskatchewan, southern Manitoba, Minnesota, southern Ontario, southwestern Quebec, and Pennsylvania; and south to southern Baja California, Mexico, Texas, the Gulf coast, and southern Florida.  Generally winters from central Washington, southern Nevada, Utah, southern Colorado, and southern Kansas east to Illinois, central Ohio, and Virginia; and south throughout its breeding range (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Gray, black, and white plumage features black tail edged with white, black wings with a central white wing patch, and grayish upperparts with a black facial mask that connects over the base of the bill.  Bill is not as large or obviously hooked as in Northern Shrike.

Nest Habits: Nests in trees or shrubs, generally up to 3-30 or more feet above the ground.  Nest is a bulky, cup-shaped structure built from twigs and lined with small roots, grasses, animal hair, and other materials.

Eggs: 4-7, usually 5-6; 24 mm.; grayish-buff in color, with gray, brown, or black markings.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and both sexes care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 16-17 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 17-21 days old.


SECRETS:
The Latin meaning of 'Lanius' is butcher; 'excubitor' is translated as watchman or sentinel. Therefore, the N. Shrike could be called the watchful butcher. Shrikes impale their prey on thorns or spikes, hence their genus name.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: The Northern Shrike breeds in areas of dense coniferous or deciduous woodlands interspersed with open areas; including taiga habitats, open birch woods, and forests surrounding bogs; also frequents riparian shrubs in northern Alaska.  In winter or during migration, may be found in semi-desert situations, savanna grasslands, or in cultivated lands (A.O.U. 1998; Lefranc 1997). May also reside near bird feeders during the winter months, where it periodically finds a meal.

Distribution: Breeding range extends from Alaska and northern Yukon east across northwestern and southern Mackenzie and southwestern Keewatin; and south to northwestern British Columbia, northern Alberta, northern Manitoba, northern Ontario, northern & central Quebec, and southern Labrador.  Movements are variable in the winter, when it is typically found in central Alaska and from the southern portions of its breeding range in Canada south to northern California, central Nevada, northern Arizona, central New Mexico, northern Texas, the mid-Western states, and the Great Lakes region east to Pennsylvania and New Jersey; casually further south, especially in irruptive years (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Gray, black, and white plumage features black tail edged with white, whitish rump, black wings with a central white wing patch, and pale grayish upperparts with a black facial mask that does not connect over the base of the bill.  Note also gray underparts, usually with noticeable vermiculated barring on breast, sides, and flanks.  Immature birds are brownish-gray, with heavily vermiculated underparts; this plumage is retained until the following spring.  Bill is larger and more obviously hooked than in Loggerhead Shrike.

Nest Habits: Nests in trees or shrubs, generally up to 5-20 feet above the ground.  Nest is a bulky, cup-shaped structure built from twigs, grass, bark, moss, feathers, and animal hair; and lined with small roots, animal hair, and feathers (Lefranc 1997).

Eggs: 2-9, usually 4-6; 27 mm.; grayish-white or greenish-white in color, with brown and lavender markings.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and both sexes care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 17 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 19-21 days old (Lefranc 1997).


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in pine-oak and pine-evergreen forests and along woodland edge (Howell and Webb 1995).

Distribution: Native to Mexico and Central America; considered accidental in southern Texas (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Male is bluish-gray, with yellowish belly and undertail coverts; note white band across base of outer tail feathers.  Female is mostly gray, with yellowish undertail coverts.  Both species have a slight crest and white eye ring.

Nest Habits: Does not breed in the United States.


SECRETS:
At a distance, Phainopeplas resemble Common Starlings; however, look for the crest and comparatively long tail, which are tell-tale signs that it's a Phainopepla.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Presence is often tied to mistletoe which it uses for nests and food; found in a variety of habitats ranging from desert washes and mesquite to juniper and oak woodlands; also frequents riparian woodlands (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from northern interior California, southern Nevada, southern Utah, southern New Mexico, and western Texas south into Mexico; withdraws from northern portions of its range in the winter (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Note reddish eyes and conspicuous crest; male is glossy black, while the female is more grayish in color.  In flight, exhibits flashy white wing patch.

Nest Habits: Nests in trees or shrubs, generally up to 4-50 feet above the ground.  Nest is a cup-shaped structure built from twigs, plant fibers, and spider's silk and lined with wool, animal hair, and plant down.

Eggs: 2-4, usually 2-3; 22 mm.; grayish-white in color, with brown and black markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 14 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 19-20 days old.


SECRETS:
In the winter, especially during irruption years and when food is available, large flocks of several hundred birds may form.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in muskeg habitats, along forest edge, and in open coniferous or deciduous forests; also may frequent mixed coniferous-deciduous woodlands.  During migration and in winter, look for it in park-like settings or residential areas, where it is especially found of fruit-bearing trees or shrubs (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from Alaska and northern Yukon east across northwestern and southern Mackenzie, northern Saskatchewan, northern Manitoba, and northern Ontario east to extreme west-central Quebec; and south to interior British Columbia, northern Washington, northern Idaho, northwestern Montana, and southwestern Alberta.  Winter distribution extends from southern portions of Alaska and northern British Columbia east across southwestern Mackenzie, central Alberta, central Saskatchewan, southern Manitoba, and central Ontario east to Nova Scotia and Newfoundland; and south (with numbers and extent of southern incursions varying widely each year) to southern California, northern Arizona, northern New Mexico, northern Texas, Oklahoma, northwestern Arkansas, southern Illinois, and central Indiana east to Pennsylvania and New Jersey (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Larger than Cedar Waxwing; note white and yellow markings on wings, and rufous undertail coverts.

Nest Habits: Nests in trees, generally up to 4-50 feet above the ground.  Nest is a cup-shaped structure built from twigs, grasses, and lichens and lined with fine grasses, mosses, pine needles, and other materials.

Eggs: 2-6, usually 4-6; 25 mm.; light blue in color, with black markings.

Incubation: It is thought that female incubates the eggs and that both sexes care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 14 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 13-16 days old.


SECRETS:
The Cedar Waxwing's unobtrusive, tremulous whistle-like call is given both by perched and flying birds; compare flocks of birds in flight with flocks of Starlings.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in orchards, park-like situations, and along forest edge or in open woodland habitats; in migration and winter, frequently found near concentrations of fruit-bearing trees or shrubs (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from southeastern Alaska and central British Columbia east across northern Alberta, northern Saskatchewan, northern Manitoba, and northern Ontario east to Nova Scotia and Newfoundland; and south to northern California, northern Utah, Colorado, western Oklahoma, Kansas, northwestern Arkansas, central Missouri, southern Illinois, east-central Mississippi, northern Alabama, northern Georgia, and South Carolina; generally winters from southern Canada (north to central Alberta & Saskatchewan) south throughout the U.S., Mexico, and Central America (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: The beauty of the Cedar Waxwing is unmistakable; note yellowish belly, white undertail coverts, and conspicuous crest; compare wing color pattern and undertail coverts with Bohemian Waxwing.

Nest Habits: May breed in colonies.  Nests in trees or shrubs, generally up to 6-50 feet above the ground.  Nest is a cup-shaped structure built from twigs, grasses, and mosses and lined with fine grass, moss, small roots, animal hair, and pine needles.

Eggs: 2-6, usually 3-5; 22 mm.; light gray or bluish-gray in color, with black markings.

Incubation: It is thought that both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 12 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 16 days old.


SECRETS:
The American Dipper, in its habits and behavior (it can even walk under water!) can be viewed as the western equivalent of the Louisiana Waterthrush, which inhabits rock-bottom streams in the eastern U.S.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in rock-bottom mountain streams and rivers with fast currents and exposed rocks and boulders; also at edge of montane lakes or ponds (A.O.U. 1998); may occur at lower elevations in the winter.

Distribution: Resident breeding range extends along western North America from Alaska south to southern California; and east to north-central Yukon, west-central Alberta, western Montana, southwestern South Dakota, and southern New Mexico; also found in the mountains of Mexico and Central America (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: The American Dipper is easily recognized by its dumpy appearance, overall dark grayish plumage, and its tendency to bob up and down on exposed rocks or boulders near the water's edge.  Song is long and loud, and can easily be heard above the roar of mountain streams.

Nest Habits: Usually nests on rock ledge against a cliff or behind waterfall.  Nest is a bulky, oven-shaped structure with a side entrance; it is built from mosses and grasses.

Eggs: 3-6, usually 4-5; 26 mm.; white.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and both sexes care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 13-17 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 18-25 days old.


SECRETS:
The Varied Thrush is known to wander to locations far east of its normal range; one pauses to wonder how common this behavior actually is, since eastern flocks of wintering robins may number in the 1000's and hide wintering Varied Thrushes.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in moist coniferous or deciduous forests, typically with dense understory; may also occur in shady areas of more open woodland or chaparral habitats (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends along the Pacific coast from Alaska south to extreme northwestern California; and east to northern Yukon, northwestern and western Mackenzie, west-central Alberta, and northwestern Montana.  Generally winters from southern Alaska south to northern Baja California; and east to northern Idaho, Utah, and Arizona (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Note dark breast band and reddish-orange wing bars and eyebrow.  Males have stunning bluish-gray upperparts; females are browner.  Wing bars, conspicuous on perched bird, can also be seen on birds in flight high overhead.  Song is a series of variously-pitched, protracted trills; call note is similar to Hermit Thrush's 'chuck' note, but more emphatic.

Nest Habits: Nests in trees, generally up to 9-25 feet above the ground.  Nest is a cup-shaped structure built from twigs, leaves, mosses, bark, and mud; and lined with leaves and dry grasses.

Eggs: 2-5, usually 3-4; 30 mm.; light blue in color, with a few brown markings.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and both sexes care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 14 days.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in pine and pine-oak forests (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Native to Mexico; considered a casual visitor to southeastern Arizona and Texas (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Mostly grayish-brown, with white belly, white wing patches, white uppertail coverts, and dark tail with broad white terminal edge.

Nest Habits: Does not breed in the United States.


SECRETS:
You, too, can make a difference: contact your local Audubon Club to learn more about bluebird nest box trails in your area; remember, nest boxes should be cleaned out at the end of each year.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in open woodlands, in park-like habitats, and on farmlands with scattered trees.

Distribution: Breeding range extends along the Atlantic coast from New Brunswick and southwestern Nova Scotia south to southern Florida; and west to southern Saskatchewan, eastern Montana, eastern Wyoming, northeastern Colorado, western Kansas, Oklahoma, and Texas (including the Gulf coast) west to southwestern New Mexico & southeastern Arizona and south into Mexico; generally winters from the middle portions of its U.S. breeding range southward (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Key field marks are the bluish upperparts, reddish breast and throat (females have white or pale rust-colored throats), and white belly.  Compare with Western Bluebird, which has a blue throat (grayish in females).

Nest Habits: Nests in natural or man-made cavities, generally up to 3-20 feet above the ground.  Nest is built from twigs, pine needles, and grasses and is lined with fine grasses, animal hair, and feathers.

Eggs: 2-7, usually 4-5; 21 mm.; light blue or white.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and both sexes care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 12-14 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 15-20 days old.


SECRETS:
Like its cousin, the Eastern Bluebird, Western Bluebird also readily nest in man-made nest boxes; these boxes also aid other species as well, including Tree or Violet-green Swallows.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in open woodlands, in savanna-like habitats or agricultural areas with scattered trees, in riparian woodlands, and in park-like habitats.

Distribution: Breeding range extends along the Pacific coast from southern British Columbia south to northern Baja California; and east to southern Alberta, central-western Saskatchewan, western Montana, western & southern Nevada, southern Utah, north-central Colorado, western & southeastern Arizona, central New Mexico, and western Texas; also breeds south into Mexico.  Generally winters in southern Oregon east to western Montana, and south throughout its breeding range and eastward to central Texas (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Key field marks are the dark bluish upperparts, reddish breast contrasting with blue throat (grayish in females), and grayish-white belly.  Compare with Eastern Bluebird, which has a chestnut-colored throat (may also be white in some females).

Nest Habits: Nests in natural or man-made cavities, generally up to about 2-50 feet above the ground.  Nest is built from twigs, grass, pine needles, animal hair, and feathers.

Eggs: 3-8, usually 4-6; 21 mm.; light blue.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and both sexes care for the young.


SECRETS:
The Mountain Bluebird is usually found breeding at high elevations, usually above 5000-7000 feet; when feeding, it frequently hovers in the air in search of prey.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in meadows and grasslands with scattered trees; also frequents pinyon-juniper, aspen, or coniferous woodlands, and sagebrush plains; during migration and in winter, also in agricultural fields and brushy areas (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends in western North America from east-central Alaska and southern Yukon south (in the mountains) to south-central and eastern California; and east to north-central Alberta, central Saskatchewan, northern Manitoba, northwestern Minnesota, northeastern North Dakota, western South Dakota, western Nebraska, central Oklahoma, and southern New Mexico.  Generally winters from the northwestern U.S. east to western Montana and south to northern Baja California, Mexico, and southern Texas; occasionally further east (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Male's beautiful sky-blue plumage is easily recognized; female is paler, and lacks rusty colors of other bluebirds.

Nest Habits: Nests in natural or man-made cavities, generally up to about 2-50 feet above the ground.  Nest is built from twigs, pine needles, grasses, animal hair, and feathers.

Eggs: 4-8, usually 5-6; 22 mm.; light blue, occasionally white.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and both sexes care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 13-14 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 22-23 days old.


SECRETS:
Although this species is known to wander widely, its resemblance to Northern Mockingbirds should be noted: this avoids mistaking mockingbirds for this species, or overlooking this species in the belief it is a mockingbird.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in open coniferous woodlands of montane or subalpine habitats.  During winter, also frequents riparian and pinyon-juniper woodlands, and chaparral or desert habitats; is especially fond of hillsides covered with juniper trees (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: In western North America, breeding range extends from Alaska south to south-central California; and east to north-central Yukon, west-central and southwestern Mackenzie, southern Alberta, southwestern Saskatchewan, southwestern South Dakota, northwestern Nebraska, and southern New Mexico.  Generally winters from southern British Columbia, southern Alberta, Montana, and central North Dakota south to northern Baja California, and into Mexico; and east to western Missouri, western Oklahoma, and western Texas; known to wander east of breeding/winter range (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Overall dull grayish-brown; note white eye ring, and buffy-brown wing patches.  In flight, also exhibits white outer tail feathers.  Warbling song is complicated, long, and resembles a cross between Purple Finch and Black-headed Grosbeak.

Nest Habits: Nests on the ground.  Nest is a cup-shaped structure built from twigs, grasses, bark, pine needles, and small roots; and lined with grass.

Eggs: 3-5, usually 4; 24 mm.; dull white, light blue, or light pink in color, with brown markings.

Incubation: Both sexes care for the young.


SECRETS:
Of all the Catharus thrushes, this species tends to be the most difficult to see, due to its preference for dense undergrowth on the breeding grounds and during migration.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in second-growth habitats, dense thickets near water, in poplar and aspen woodlands, and in wet, swampy forests (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from southern interior British Columbia and central Alberta east across central Saskatchewan, southern Manitoba, central Ontario, and south-central Quebec east to Nova Scotia and southwestern Newfoundland; and south to central Oregon, northeastern Nevada, northern Utah, south-central Colorado, northeastern South Dakota, Iowa, and central Illinois east to central New Jersey and Maryland; and locally south in the Appalachian Mountains to Tennessee, North Carolina, and Georgia.  Migrates to South America for the winter (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Reddish-brown upperparts and lack of bold spotting on breast separate it from Hermit and Wood Thrushes.  However, in the west, close comparisons should be made with Swainson's Thrush.  Song is a rapidly descending series of ethereal notes.  Call note, 'veer', is frequently heard on the breeding grounds.

Nest Habits: Nests on the ground or in shrubs, generally up to 6 feet above the ground.  Nest is built from leaves, twigs, moss, grasses, and bark, and is lined with dry grasses & leaves.

Eggs: 3-5, usually 4; 23 mm.; light blue.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and both sexes care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 10-12 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 10 days old.


SECRETS:
During the spring migration, it is very uncommon to see more Gray-cheekeds than Swainson's Thrushes; by far, the Gray-cheeked is the less common of the two species.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Breeds in boreal coniferous forests, taiga habitats, and in willow-alder scrub thickets (A.O.U. 1998).  In migration, found in a variety of forests and open woodland situations, and in park-like habitats.

Distribution: Breeding range extends from Alaska and northern Yukon east across northern Mackenzie, southern Keewatin, northern Quebec, and Labrador east to Newfoundland; and south to northwestern British Columbia, northeastern Saskatchewan, northern Manitoba, extreme northern Ontario, and central Quebec.  Migrates to Central and South America for the winter (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Grayish-brown upperparts, spotting on breast, and distinctly gray cheek are good field marks for this species; note indistinct eye ring (compare with similar Swainson's Thrush).  Song is similar to Veery's, perhaps more nasal, and tending to spiral downward (but may rise upward at very end).

Nest Habits: Nests on the ground or in shrubs, generally up to 20 feet above the ground.  Nest is built from leaves, grasses, mud, sedges, bark, and moss.

Eggs: 3-6, usually 3-5; 23 mm.; light greenish-blue to light blue in color, with brown markings.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and both sexes care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 13-14 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 11-13 days old.


SECRETS:
Formerly classified as a subspecies of the Gray-cheeked Thrush.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Breeds in high-elevation stunted coniferous and deciduous forests (A.O.U. 1998).  In migration, found in a variety of forests and open woodland situations, and in park-like habitats.

Distribution: Breeding range includes Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, and Prince Edward Island; and extends to the New England states of western Massachusetts, central and northern Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine; also eastern New York.  Migrates to the West Indies for the winter (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Very similar to Gray-cheeked Thrush, but upperparts tend to be olive-brown, and face has paler lores; however, these two species may not be separable in the field, except by distributional breeding ranges which do not overlap.  Compare also with Swainson's Thrush and Veery.

Nest Habits: Nest habits, clutch sizes, and incubation/fledging periods assumed to be similar to Gray-cheeked Thrush.


SECRETS:
In migration, Swainson's Thrushes hidden in dense thickets or woods give a 'wup' call, much different from the call notes of other thrushes.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Breeds in coniferous woodlands, aspen-poplar forests, and dense scrub, undergrowth, or riparian thickets; in migration, can also be found in a variety of forests and open woodland situations, and in park-like habitats (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from Alaska and central Yukon east across western Mackenzie, northern Saskatchewan, north-central Manitoba, northern Ontario, and central Quebec east to southern Labrador and Newfoundland; and south (in western North America) to southern California, central Nevada, central Arizona, and northern New Mexico, extending east to extreme northwestern Nebraska, eastern Wyoming, southwestern South Dakota, and central Montana.  Further east, breeding range extends south to southwestern and central Saskatchewan, southern Manitoba, the Great Lakes region, and northern Pennsylvania east to Massachusetts.  Also breeds in eastern West Virginia and western Virginia.  Migrates to Mexico, Central America, and South America for the winter (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Upperparts are olive-brown, distinguishing it from Hermit Thrush.  Note conspicuous eye ring.  Along the west coast, there occurs a subspecies that is more reddish-brown on the upperparts; compare closely with Veery.  Song is an upward-spiraling set of flute-like phrases.

Nest Habits: Nests in trees or shrubs, generally up to 2-20 or more feet above the ground.  Nest is built from twigs, sedges, leaves, bark, and other vegetation; and is lined with leaves, lichens, and small roots.

Eggs: 3-5, usually 3-4; 22 mm.; light blue in color, with brown markings.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and both sexes care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 12-14 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 10-13 days old.


SECRETS:
In addition to the blackbird-like 'chuck' note, the Hermit Thrush has another call that sounds somewhat like the squeal of an Eastern Towhee; compare these two calls closely to learn their subtle differences.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in a variety of forested habitats; during migration and winter, may also frequent chaparral, scrubby areas, and residential areas or park-like habitats with dense undergrowth.

Distribution: Breeding range extends from western and central Alaska and southern Yukon east across southern Mackenzie, northern Saskatchewan, northern Manitoba, northern Ontario, and central Quebec east to southern Labrador and Newfoundland; and south (in western North America, including the Rockies) to south-central & eastern California, southern Nevada, central & southeastern Arizona, southern New Mexico, and extreme western Texas.  Further east, breeding range extends south to southwestern and central Alberta, central Saskatchewan, southern Manitoba, the Great Lakes region, and central Pennsylvania east to western Maryland and southern New Jersey.  Also breeds in the Appalachian Mountains south to Tennessee and North Carolina.  Generally winters (with increasing frequency as one moves south) from southwestern British Columbia, the northern U.S., southern Ontario, and the New England area south to southern Baja California, Mexico, the Gulf coast, and southern Florida (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Olive-brown or grayish-brown back and head always contrast with rufous tail; tail is occasionally quickly raised and slowly lowered.  Although it has an eye ring, contrast between back and tail separate it from Swainson's Thrush.  Song is flute-like and suggests Wood Thrush but can easily be told from that species by the prolonged introductory note.

Nest Habits: Nests on the ground, but may occasionally use tree -- generally up to 8 feet above the ground.  Nest is a cup-shaped structure built from twigs, bark, grasses, ferns, and mosses; and is lined with pine needles, small roots, and other vegetation.

Eggs: 3-6, usually 4; 22 mm.; light blue or greenish-blue in color, sometimes with brown markings.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and both sexes care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 12-13 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 12 days old.


SECRETS:
The Wood Thrush is one of many species that are now suffering from the fragmentation of eastern forests and the associated increase in brood-parasitism by Brown-headed Cowbirds.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in deciduous forests and woodlands; also frequents mixed deciduous-coniferous woodlands, and park-like or suburban habitats with a dense understory layer (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range along the Atlantic coast extends from western Nova Scotia, southern New Brunswick, and southwestern Maine south to northern Florida; and west to southeastern North Dakota, eastern South Dakota, central Nebraska, central Kansas, eastern Oklahoma, and east-central Texas (including the Gulf coast).  Migrates to Mexico, Central America, and South America in the winter, when it may also be found in southern Texas (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Upperparts are the direct opposite of the Hermit Thrush: lower back and tail are olive brown, while head and nape are bright rufous.  Spots on breast extend down onto belly and are larger than on any of the other North American thrushes.  Flute-like song consists of 3-5 notes, each on a different pitch, and ends with a more complex, musical trill.

Nest Habits: Nests in shrubs or trees, generally up to 6-50 feet above the ground.  Nest is a cup-shaped structure built from leaves, grasses, mud, and mosses, and lined with small roots.

Eggs: 2-5, usually 3-4; 25 mm.; light blue or bluish-green in color.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and both sexes care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 13-14 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 12 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in woodlands, usually near water; also frequents farmlands and scrub habitats (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Native to Asia and India; in migration, may be found in the western Aleutian Islands, occasionally further east in Alaska (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Olive-brown back, wings, and tail; grayish head and throat, buffy-orange sides and flanks; white belly.  Note white eyebrow, for which this species is named.

Nest Habits: Does not breed in North America.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in taiga habitats, and in forests and woodlands; in migration and winter, also frequents farmlands (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Native to Asia and India; considered a casual visitor to Alaska (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Plumage pattern suggests Varied Thrush, but the colors are all different: note white eyebrow; scaly black-and-white appearance to breast and sides; dark upper breast band; and rufous coloration throughout wings.

Nest Habits: Does not breed in North America.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found along woodland edge, on brushy and rocky slopes, and in riparian thickets; in migration and winter, also frequents open country and agricultural areas near woodlands (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range includes southern Greenland; also breeds in Asia and Europe; in winter, may also be found in India and Africa.  Considered casual or accidental in Alaska, Canada, and the northern U.S. (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Pale-colored bill with a dark tip; mostly gray upperparts, with brown scaling on upper back and darker grayish-black tail.  Belly white, with dark streaking on sides of breast; streaking is more densely concentrated on upper breast.

Nest Habits: Nests in trees.  Nest is a cup-shaped structure built from straw and mud.

Eggs: 3-8, usually 5-6; grayish-green or light bluish-green in color, with reddish-brown markings.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and both sexes care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 13-14 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 14 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in taiga habitats, in woodlands, and in moist thickets; in winter, also frequents agricultural fields and pastures (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Native to Europe and Asia; considered a casual visitor to Newfoundland; may have also occurred in New York in 1959 (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: White eyebrow, black moustache, brownish upperparts, and pale white underparts with brown streaking and reddish flanks.  In flight, wing linings show a deep red color.

Nest Habits: Does not breed in North America.


SECRETS:
The nest and song of this species closely resemble those of the American Robin.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in open and semi-open areas, usually with hedges and scattered trees; also along forest edge (Howell and Webb 1995).

Distribution: Native to Mexico, Central America, and South America; occasionally breeds in southern Texas.  Otherwise, considered a casual visitor to south-central and coastal Texas, and it may also (rarely) winter in southern Texas (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Olive-brown upperparts and tawny-buff underparts identify this thrush-like bird; note straw-colored bill and streaked throat.

Nest Habits: Nests in trees or shrubs, generally up to 5-12 feet above the ground.  Nest is a bulky, cup-shaped structure that closely resembles an American Robin's nest.

Eggs: 2-4; light blue, grayish-blue, or bluish-green in color.

Incubation: Incubation lasts approximately 12 days.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in forested areas and along forest edge; also frequents plantations (Howell and Webb 1995).

Distribution: Native to Mexico, Central America, and South America; considered accidental in southern Texas (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Bill color varies from gray to dull yellow.  Legs, likewise, vary from gray to yellow.  Upperparts vary from light, grayish-brown to dark brown; in both instances contrasting with light gray underparts.  Whitish throat has dark brown streakings.

Nest Habits: Does not breed in the United States.


SECRETS:
Whenever this rare vagrant appears, it generates lots of tourist dollars: the most hardcore birders have been known to catch the next available flight to the state in which this bird has recently been found!

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in forested areas and along forest edge; also frequents plantations and gardens (Howell and Webb 1995).

Distribution: Native to Mexico; considered a casual visitor to California, Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: White belly; orange breast, sides, and flanks; grayish head, wings, lower back, and tail.  Note broad, rufous patch on upper back; also rufous wing coverts.  Pale-colored bill.

Nest Habits: Does not breed in the United States.


SECRETS:
The image of the robin is familiar to most anyone who has expressed even a passing interest in birds. Its spring flights are frequently regarded as a sign of the returning warm weather and the end of winter.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in woodlands and along woodland edge, in park-like situations, and in urban or suburban areas; in winter, frequents an even wider diversity of habitats, including areas where fruit-bearing trees or shrubs are present (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Widespread; breeds throughout Canada (except in the Arctic islands), Alaska, and the lower 48 states (except southern Florida and southwestern Arizona); range extends south into northern Baja California and Mexico.  Generally winters from southern Alaska and the southern edges of Canada south (with increasing frequency as one moves south) throughout the U.S. to southern Baja California, Mexico, the Gulf coast, and southern Florida (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Red to reddish-orange breast, white lower belly and undertail coverts, brownish-gray upperparts; male's head is darker than female.  Also note the yellowish bill.

Nest Habits: Nests in trees, generally up to 5-20 or more feet above the ground; may also nest in shrubs, on the ground, or even on man-made structures (e.g., roof gutter).  Nest is a cup-shaped structure built from twigs, grass, and mud, and lined with fine grasses.

Eggs: 3-7, usually 4; 28 mm.; light blue, sometimes with brown markings.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and both sexes care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 12-14 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 14-16 days old.


SECRETS:
Catbirds sometimes linger late in the fall north of their known wintering range; usually such birds are found feeding on the remaining crop of fruit-bearing shrubs or trees.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in hedgerows and in dense brushy areas and thickets, including urban & suburban areas with dense understory, as well as dense thickets and shrubs along woodland edge (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Along the Atlantic coast, breeding range extends from Nova Scotia and Newfoundland south to northern Florida; and west to southern British Columbia, eastern Washington, northeastern Oregon, southern Idaho, north-central Utah, central & northeastern Arizona, central New Mexico, and north-central & eastern Texas (including the Gulf states).  Generally winters from north-central & eastern Texas, the central regions of the Gulf states, central Georgia, and along the immediate Atlantic coastal area (from New England south) south to Mexico, Central America, the Bahamas, and the West Indies (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Overall gray color, with dark bill, black cap, and reddish undertail coverts.

Nest Habits: Nests in shrubs or trees, generally up to 3-10 or more feet above the ground.  Nest is a cup-shaped structure built from twigs, grass, and leaves, and lined with pine needles, small roots, bark, and animal hair.

Eggs: 2-6, usually 4; 24 mm.; dark greenish-blue in color.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and both sexes care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 12-13 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 10-11 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in scrubby woodlands and along forest edge (Howell and Webb 1995).

Distribution: Native to Mexico and Central America; considered accidental in southern Texas (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Similar to Gray Catbird, but entirely black.

Nest Habits: Does not breed in the United States.


SECRETS:
Because it has had a famous movie named after it, and because it sings at night, most people (birders and non-birders alike) are familiar with this mimic; spend some time identifying the different birds it imitates in your area.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in a variety of open or semi-open habitats with scattered trees or shrubs, along forest edge, and in urban or suburban areas with scrubby thickets.

Distribution: Along the Atlantic coast, breeding range extends from the New England area south to southern Florida; and west to southern Michigan, southwestern South Dakota, and northern California; and from there south to southern Baja California, Mexico, Texas, and the Gulf coast; irregularly found north of this range in breeding season.  Withdraws from northern portions of range in the winter (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Grayish-white plumage overall, with darker wings and tail.  Note white wing patches and white outer tail feathers, both of which are flashed in flight.  Tail is swished and swayed in various directions as bird perches, displays, or flies from one perch to another.  Song is given throughout the summer, even on the hottest of days, and frequently at night (often to the annoyance of nearby residents).

Nest Habits: Nests in shrubs or trees, generally up to 1-50 feet above the ground.  Nest is a cup-shaped structure built from twigs, leaves, paper, and other materials; and lined with grasses and small roots.

Eggs: 2-6, usually 3-5; 24 mm.; bluish or greenish in color, with brown markings.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and both sexes care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 12-13 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 11-13 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in scrubby habitats and second-growth areas, and along forest edge (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Native to the Bahamas and West Indies; considered a casual to regular visitor to southern Florida.

Field Marks: Slightly larger than Northern Mockingbird; note streaked, grayish-brown back, pale gray underparts with streaking on sides and flanks, and two whitish wing bars (no white wing patches as in Northern Mockingbird).

Nest Habits: Does not breed in the United States.


SECRETS:
The Sage Thrasher is known to wander east of its normal range; oftentimes, these vagrants are found in scrubby thickets or large grassy or shrubby fields where the bird presumably goes to roost at night.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in plains or hillsides dominated by sagebrush; during migration and winter, also frequents pinyon-juniper woodlands and scrubby habitats & grasslands with scattered bushes (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from south-central British Columbia, central Idaho, and southwestern & south-central Montana south (through eastern Washington & eastern Oregon) to east-central California, southern Nevada, northeastern Arizona, and west-central and northern New Mexico.  Winter range extends from southern Nevada east across northern Arizona, central New Mexico, and central Texas to southwestern Oklahoma; and south to southern Baja California, Mexico, and southern Texas.  Ranges east of known range in the winter, when it is encountered as a vagrant in the eastern U.S. (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Rather short-tailed for a thrasher; note dark grayish upperparts, dull white underparts with heavy brown streaking, and yellowish eye.  In flight, shows white at corners of tail.

Nest Habits: Nests in shrubs, also occasionally on the ground; generally up to 3 feet above the ground.  Nest is a cup-shaped structure built from twigs, leaves, and bark; and lined with small roots and animal hair.

Eggs: 1-7, usually 3-5; 25 mm.; blue or greenish-blue in color, with brown markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 15 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 11-14 days old.


SECRETS:
The only widespread thrasher in eastern North America, the Brown Thrasher's song consists of various notes and phrases, each of which is repeated about 2-3 times; compare with Mockingbird, whose phrases are often repeated 5-6 or more times.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found along forest edge, and in dense thickets or shrubby habitats, including urban or suburban areas (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from east-central Alberta and central Saskatchewan east across southern Manitoba, central Ontario, southwestern Quebec, and southern New Brunswick to Maine; and south to east-central Texas, the Gulf coast, and southern Florida; also breeds west to western Montana, eastern Wyoming, and eastern Colorado.  Generally winters in southeastern Arizona, central & southern New Mexico; and from western & northern Texas, eastern Oklahoma, southern Missouri, western Tennessee, central Kentucky, North Carolina, and southern Maryland south to southern Texas, the Gulf coast, and southern Florida (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Slightly decurved bill, reddish-brown upperparts (including face; compare with Long-billed Thrasher), buffy-white underparts with dark brown streaking.

Nest Habits: Nests in shrubs or trees, also occasionally on the ground; generally up to 15 feet above the ground.  Nest is a layered, cup-shaped structure built from twigs, leaves, bark, and grasses; and lined with small roots.

Eggs: 2-6, usually 4-5; 26 mm.; bluish-white or white in color, with brown markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 11-14 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 9-13 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in brushy woodland and along woodland edge; and in scrubby thickets, hedges, and other similar types of habitat (Howell and Webb 1995).

Distribution: This resident species is found from southern Texas south into Mexico (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Noticeably decurved bill, reddish-brown upperparts, grayish face, orange eye color, buffy-white underparts with dark brown streaking; compare with Brown Thrasher.

Nest Habits: Nests in shrubs or trees, generally up to 4-10 feet above the ground.  Nest is a cup-shaped structure built from twigs, leaves, grasses, and lined with small roots and grasses.

Eggs: 2-5, usually 3-4; 28 mm.; bluish-green or greenish-white in color, with cinnamon markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 13-14 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 12-14 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in desert habitats with tall vegetation (e.g., cholla cacti, Joshua trees, or yucca plants); also in nearby juniper woodlands; less frequently in agricultural areas with nearby brushy or scrubby habitats (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from northwestern Mexico north to southeastern California, southern Nevada, southern Utah, south-central Colorado, and western and central New Mexico.  Generally winters from southern Arizona and extreme southwestern New Mexico south into northwest Mexico (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: This short-tailed thrasher also has a short, decurved bill.  Note uniformly grayish-brown upperparts; paler below, with fine grayish mottling or spotting across breast.  Lower mandible is straight (not curved) and is pale at the base; however, these field marks may be difficult to see.  Compare with Curve-billed Thrasher.

Nest Habits: Nests in cacti or shrubs, generally up to 2-12 feet above the ground.  Nest is a cup-shaped structure built from twigs and leaves, and lined with grass, small roots, animal hair, and other material.

Eggs: 3-5, usually 3-4; 25 mm.; grayish-green to greenish-white in color, with pale brown markings.

Incubation: Little information is known.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in lowland and montane scrub habitats, usually in areas with dense vegetation (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: This resident species is found in Mexico north to northwest Arizona, central and northeastern New Mexico, southeastern Colorado, western Oklahoma, extreme southwestern Kansas, and western & central Texas (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Soft grayish-brown upperparts; somewhat paler below with mottled gray spots on breast.  Eye color varies from orange to yellow.  Compare with Bendire's Thrasher.

Nest Habits: Nests in cacti, shrubs, or trees, generally up to 3-10 or more feet above the ground.  Nest is a cup-shaped structure built from twigs and grass, and lined with small roots, fine grasses, animal hair, and feathers.

Eggs: 1-5, usually 3-4; 29 mm.; bluish-green or greenish-blue in color, with brown markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs (however, mostly by female) and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 12-15 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 11-18 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in generally barren or open desert scrub habitats, and in dry, sandy washes (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: This resident species is found in west-central Baja California and northwestern Mexico north to southern California, southern Nevada, southwestern Utah, and western & south-central Arizona (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Noticeably pale grayish overall, with buffy undertail coverts, white throat, dark gray moustache, and dark grayish-brown tail.  Dark eye.

Nest Habits: Nests in cacti, shrubs, or trees, generally up to 6 feet above the ground.  Nest is a cup-shaped structure built from twigs and lined with plant down, small roots, and leaves.

Eggs: 2-4, usually 3-4; 28 mm.; pale bluish-green or greenish-blue in color, with light brown markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 15 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 15 days old.


SECRETS:
There is perhaps nothing more fascinating than watching a California Thrasher chomp down one poison oak berry after another; imagine what would happen if we humans tried to do that!

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in lowland and coastal chaparral, also in riparian woodland thickets; may also frequent suburbs with extensive dense understory shrubs (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: This resident species is found in California, west of the Cascades and Sierra Nevada ranges, and in northwestern Baja California (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Dark, brownish-gray upperparts, including tail; somewhat paler below; buffy or tan-colored belly and undertail coverts; whitish throat; dark moustache; and dark eye with grayish-white eyebrow.  Can be heard singing at almost any time of the year.  Compare with Crissal Thrasher.

Nest Habits: Nests in shrubs or trees, generally up to 2-4 or more feet above the ground.  Nest is a cup-shaped structure built from twigs and lined with small roots and grasses.

Eggs: 2-4, usually 3-4; 29 mm.; bluish-green or light blue in color, with light brown markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 14 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 12-14 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in riparian thickets, and in lowland and montane scrub habitats (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: This resident species is found in northeastern Baja California and in Mexico, north to southeastern California, southern Nevada, southwestern Utah, northwestern and central Arizona, central New Mexico, and western Texas (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Dark, grayish-brown upperparts, including tail; somewhat paler below; reddish undertail coverts; whitish throat; dark moustache; and dark eye.  Compare with California Thrasher.

Nest Habits: Nests in shrubs or trees, generally up to 3-8 feet above the ground.  Nest is a cup-shaped structure built from grasses, bark, and other vegetation; and lined with grasses and sometimes with feathers.

Eggs: 1-4, usually 2-3; 26 mm.; blue or green in color.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 14 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 11-13 days old.


SECRETS:
Starlings were introduced into N. America (New York) in 1890; they have since expanded throughout the continent; imagine what it must have been like to go birding in the early 20th century without seeing any of these birds!

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in or near places of human habitation, including agricultural areas, cities, and towns; less common or absent in more pristine (i.e., less disturbed) environments (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Widespread; this introduced species is now found throughout the United States, and throughout Canada (except the Arctic islands and northernmost reaches of the country), west to east-central and southeastern Alaska; also breeds south to central Baja California and northern Mexico.  Generally winters throughout its breeding range south to southern Mexico (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: In the breeding season, note iridescent black/purple colors on head and underparts, dark brownish wings, and yellowish bill.  In the winter, acquires a speckled appearance, and bill is duller.  Young starlings are browner, and may be confused with blackbirds.  Starlings differ from blackbirds by having a comparatively shorter tail.  These birds may mimic vocalizations of other species, but they are not as accomplished in this behavior as the Northern Mockingbird.

Note: the introduction of starlings (and House Sparrows, for that matter) have adversely affected many species of native North American species which nest in cavities, including woodpeckers and bluebirds.

Nest Habits: Nests in natural cavities, but may also use nest boxes intended for other, native species if the hole is large enough; also may nest in cavities on side of buildings.  Nest is generally placed up to 2-60 feet above the ground and is constructed with twigs, straw, grasses, and other materials.

Eggs: 2-8, usually 4-6; 30 mm.; greenish-white, light blue, or white in color.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs (however, mostly by female) and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 12-14 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 18-21 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in open country and agricultural areas, usually near human settlements (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Native to Asia; introduced, and now established, in British Columbia and Florida (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Black overall, with short crest on forehead, white wing patch, and yellowish bill.

Nest Habits: Nests in natural cavities, but may also use nest boxes or crevices in side of building; nest is constructed with weeds, grasses, feathers, small roots, foil, cellophane, and a variety of other materials.

Eggs: 4-7, usually 4-5; greenish-blue in color.

Incubation: Incubation lasts approximately 15 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 27 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in taiga habitats; also frequents wooded areas and scrub habitats (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Native to Asia; considered a casual visitor in migration to the Aleutian Islands (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Small, grayish-brown bird with white underparts; note grayish-brown streaks on breast, white eye ring/lores, and notched tail.

Nest Habits: Does not breed in North America.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in open montane forests and in taiga habitats (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Native to Asia and India; considered a casual visitor to the Aleutian Islands (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Small, dark grayish-brown bird; note white throat and collection of dark streaks on chest that form a breast band.  Compare with Gray-streaked Flycatcher.

Nest Habits: Does not breed in North America.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in forests and woodlands (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Native to Asia; considered accidental in the Aleutian Islands (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Note small size.  This plainly marked bird has brownish-gray upperparts, short tail, plain white underparts, and white eye ring.

Nest Habits: Does not breed in North America.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in montane forests, usually near water (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Native to Asia; considered accidental in Alaska (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Male: upper back, wings, head, and tail are black; note golden eyebrow, orange breast, throat, and rump, and white belly; wings have white patch.  Females are generally olive in color.

Nest Habits: Does not breed in North America.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in coniferous forests (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Native to Asia; considered accidental in the Aleutian Islands (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Male: back, wings, head, and tail are black.  Note short, white eyebrow; orange breast and throat; white belly; and large white patch in wing.  Females are generally olive-brown in color, and wings have wing bars instead of patches.

Nest Habits: Does not breed in North America.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in the understory of mixed deciduous-coniferous woodlands (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Native to Europe and Asia; considered a casual visitor to the Aleutian Islands (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Throat in males is orangish-red and face and chest are dark gray in color; females are olive-brown above, paler below.  Tail is dark; base of outer tail feathers are white; this species characteristically flicks the tail up and spreads it to show the white areas.

Nest Habits: Does not breed in North America.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in thickets, bogs, and in regenerating burned areas within mixed or coniferous open forests; also frequents taiga, scrub, second-growth, and subalpine scrub habitats (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Native to Asia and India; migrates through the western Aleutian Islands; considered accidental in southern Ontario (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Adult males, with bright reddish throat, are unmistakable (but compare with Bluethroat); note indistinct eyebrow and white throat in immature plumage; adult females have more conspicuous eyebrow.

Nest Habits: Does not breed in North America.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in dense thickets, usually near water (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeds in western and northern Alaska; also in Europe and Asia; winters in Africa, India, and Asia (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Adult males, with red-and-blue throat, are unmistakable; note eyebrow, white throat, breast band, and buffy sides and flanks in immature plumage; adult females have less buff.

Nest Habits: Nests on the ground.  Nest is a cup-shaped structure built from leaves, twigs, small roots, bark, moss, plant down, and string; and lined with animal hair.

Eggs: 4-7, usually 6; 19 mm.; green, with brown markings.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and both sexes care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 14 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 14 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in forested areas with dense canopy and open understory (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Native to Asia; considered accidental in the Aleutian Islands (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Males are brilliant blue above; white below.  Blackish-blue feathers extend from eye down side of neck and onto flanks.

Nest Habits: Does not breed in North America.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in taiga; in moist coniferous and mixed forest; and, in winter, within forest undergrowth or in second-growth areas (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Native to Asia; considered a casual spring visitor to the Aleutian Islands; accidental in California (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Males are dark blue above, with white underparts and orange flanks; note narrow, pale eyebrow.  Females are pale grayish-brown above with bluish-gray rump and tail; pale orange flanks.

Nest Habits: Does not breed in North America.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in open country with scattered bushes and rocks; and on brushy hillsides.  Also frequents marsh edges and meadows (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Native to Europe, Asia, and Africa; considered a casual visitor in Alaska; accidental in New Brunswick (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Males have black on head, wings, back, and tail; note white stripe at bend of wing, and grayish-white rump; underparts include tawny breast and flanks, and white belly.  Females are browner and streaked on back.

Nest Habits: Does not breed in North America.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Frequents dry, rocky tundra areas (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeds in Greenland and in Alaska; breeding range also includes Yukon, northwestern Mackenzie, and Baffin and Ellesmere Islands south to southeastern Keewatin, northern Quebec and Labrador.  Winters in Africa, India, and Asia.  Considered casual or accidental elsewhere in North America (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: White rump.  Tail is mostly white, with broad dark terminal band; central feathers have less white on them.  Rest of plumage is variable; some birds have gray back, black wings, and buffy-white underparts (overall, plumage is paler in females); while others have tawny underparts.  In all plumages note conspicuous eyebrow and dark eye patch (most obvious in males).

Nest Habits: Nest is placed in a cavity under rock, or in abandoned rodent burrow.  Somewhat cup-shaped, nest is made from grasses and moss, and is lined with small roots, fine grasses, animal hair, feathers, and plant down.

Eggs: 3-8, usually 5-6; 21 mm.; light blue, sometimes with reddish-brown markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs (however, mostly by female) and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 14 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 15-16 days old.


SECRETS:
The call of this species is a series of high-pitched, peeping 'ti-di' or 'peep' notes, which sounds more like a small squirrel than a bird.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in yellow pine forests, more frequently Monterey pine woodlands along the coast (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: This resident species is found from southern interior British Columbia, northern Idaho, western Montana, central Wyoming, southwestern South Dakota, and northwestern Nebraska south to California, northern Baja California, southern Nevada, central and southeastern Arizona, central New Mexico, extreme western Texas, and south into Mexico (A.O.U. 1998); occurrence throughout range is influenced by presence of pines, and therefore, distribution within the described geographic area is discontinuous.

Field Marks: This western counterpart to the eastern Brown-headed Nuthatch is identified by its small size, grayish-white nape patch, and grayish-brown crown.  Usually travels in flocks.

Nest Habits: Nests in cavities which it excavates itself; also in abandoned woodpecker holes; generally up to 6-60 feet above the ground.  Nest is lined with scales of pine cones, plant down, leaves, fur, and feathers.  Breeding strategy incorporates a breeding pair and several helpers at the nest; the helpers are typically unmated males or otherwise related offspring or siblings of the pair.

Eggs: 4-9, usually 6-8; 15 mm.; white, with reddish-brown markings.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and both sexes (plus helpers) care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 15-16 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 20-22 days old.


SECRETS:
One of the more unusual foraging habits of this species includes crawling up and down the outside walls of buildings in search of insects, ants, or other available prey.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in open pine forests and in pine-oak woodlands (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: This species is resident in the southeastern United States, from southeastern Oklahoma, central Arkansas, southern and eastern Tennessee, western North Carolina, south-central and eastern Virginia, southern Maryland, and southern Delaware south to eastern Texas, the Gulf coast, and southern Florida (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: This eastern counterpart to the western Pygmy Nuthatch is identified by its small size, dull white nape patch, and brown crown.  Usually travels in flocks; presence is revealed by its chattering call notes.

Nest Habits: Nests in cavities which it excavates itself; generally up to 2-50 or more feet above the ground.  Nest is lined with grasses, bark strips, feathers, parts of pine seeds, and other materials.  Breeding strategy incorporates a breeding pair and typically one helper (usually an unmated male).

Eggs: 3-9, usually 4-5; 15 mm.; white, with brown markings.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and both sexes (plus helper) care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 14 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 18-19 days old.


SECRETS:
Roger Tory Peterson once described the sound of this species as a tiny tin horn; however, when a flock of these birds is agitated by the presence of an owl, the combined calls of these nuthatches sounds like a virtual symphony!

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Breeds in mature coniferous and mixed coniferous-deciduous forests; during migration and in winter, also frequents deciduous forests and more open woodlands, including park-like habitats, riparian woodlands, and residential areas (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from south-coastal and southeastern Alaska and southern Yukon east across southwestern Mackenzie, northwestern Saskatchewan, central Manitoba, northern Ontario, and south-central Quebec to southern Labrador and Newfoundland.  In the west, range extends south and east (including the Rockies) to southern California, central and southeastern Arizona, and southern New Mexico; further east, range extends south to northwestern and north-central Nebraska, North Dakota, north-central and eastern Minnesota, northern Illinois, southern Michigan, southern Ontario, and northern Ohio east to Pennsylvania and Delaware.  Also breeds south into the Appalachian Mountains to Tennessee and North Carolina.  In winter, it is found throughout its breeding range, except for northernmost latitudes and highest elevations; winter range is highly variable due to its irruptive nature (irruptions are due to failure of cone crop in northern latitudes).  In some years, can be found as far south as northern Baja California, southern Arizona, southern New Mexico, southern Texas, along the Gulf coast, and in central Florida (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Black cap, white eyebrow, black eye line, and rufous underparts identify this small nuthatch.  Most readily found in its preferred habitat: conifers.

Nest Habits: Nests in cavities which it excavates itself; also in abandoned woodpecker holes; generally up to 5-100 or more feet above the ground.  Nest is lined with grasses, small roots, moss, bark, and plant fibers.

Eggs: 4-7, usually 5-6; 15 mm.; white or pinkish-white, with reddish-brown markings.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and both sexes care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 12 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 14-21 days old.


SECRETS:
When you start out learning about birds, remember that many species have unique habits; for example nuthatches often face downward while clinging to the trunk of a tree, while creepers face upward.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in woodlands and forests, usually mature deciduous forests, but also in mixed forests, and in Ponderosa pine or pinyon-juniper woodlands (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Resident breeding range extends from southern Canada (including northeastern British Columbia) south throughout the United States (except for southwestern Arizona, portions of the immediate Gulf coast, and central and southern Florida) and into Mexico and Baja California.  However, it is absent during the breeding season from most of the Great Plains form southern Alberta south through the western portions of the plains states to northern and west-central Texas (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Black cap, white cheek, white underparts, and comparatively larger size identify this nuthatch.  Males have darker caps, and thus show greater contrast between cap/nape of neck and bluish-gray back than females.

Nest Habits: Nests in natural cavities, generally up to 10-60 feet above the ground; but may also use nest boxes.  Nest is lined with bark strips, fur, animal hair, and feathers.

Eggs: 3-10, usually 5-8; 19 mm.; white in color, with brown, red, purple, or gray markings.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and both sexes care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 12 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 14 days old.


SECRETS:
When you start out learning about birds, remember that many species have unique habits; for example creepers often face upward while clinging to the trunk of a tree, while nuthatches face downward.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in mature coniferous and deciduous forests, including wooded swamps and, in migration or winter, in more open park-like situations with tall trees.

Distribution: Breeding range extends from south-central Alaska and north-central British Columbia east across central Alberta, central Saskatchewan, central Manitoba, northern Ontario, and south-central Quebec to Newfoundland.  In the west, breeding range extends south to southern California, southern Nevada, central and southeastern Arizona (and south into Mexico), and extreme western Texas; further east, range extends south to Nebraska, Iowa, Missouri, Illinois, and Michigan east to West Virginia, and south in the Appalachian Mountains to Tennessee and North Carolina.  Also breeds locally in the lowlands of Virginia, Maryland, and Delaware.  Irregularly present in breeding season outside of described range.  In the winter, it is generally found from southern coastal Alaska and southern Canada south throughout most of the U.S. to Mexico, southern Texas, the Gulf coast, and northern Florida (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Unique: brownish upperparts with white streaking, white underparts, white eyebrow, and thin, decurved bill.  Song, an ethereal 'tee, la-li, la-li'; call note is a thin, 'tsee' note, not tremulous as in waxwing, and usually given singly (not in triplets as in Golden-crowned Kinglet).

Nest Habits: Unique in its nesting habits, by choosing to build nest between the trunk of a tree and peeling bark, generally up to 3-50 feet above the ground; may also nest in cavity or deserted woodpecker hole.  Nest is constructed with mosses, twigs, spiders' cocoons, and bark strips; and is lined with feathers.

Eggs: 4-8, usually 5-6; 15 mm.; white in color, lightly marked with brown.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and both sexes care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 14-17 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 13-16 days old.


SECRETS:
The Cactus Wren not only uses its nest for the rearing of young, but it continues to use it throughout the year as a place for roosting.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in arid lowland and montane scrub habitats, usually with cacti or other types of thorny trees or shrubs.

Distribution: This species is resident from Mexico and Baja California north to southern California, southern Nevada, extreme southwestern Utah, central Arizona, central New Mexico, and central and southern Texas (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: This large wren is told by its creamy white underparts with dense black spotting, white eyebrow, and reddish-brown upperparts heavily streaked and barred with white.  Song is a low-pitched, hoarse series of repetitive notes, suggesting a car or tractor that refuses to start.

Nest Habits: Nests in cacti, shrubs, or trees, generally up to 3-9 or more feet above the ground.  Nest is a spherical or pouch-shaped structure that is built from various plant fibers and lined with feathers and fur.

Eggs: 3-7, usually 4-5; 24 mm.; white or pinkish-white in color, with brown markings.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and both sexes care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 16 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 19-23 days old.


SECRETS:
Trust your judgement! As you're driving along the countryside, when you see a large area of exposed rocks & you start to think 'Rock Wren', more times than not, you'll be right:if you investigate such areas, you will indeed find a Rock Wren

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in arid or semi-arid areas with exposed rocks; also frequents canyons or cliffs with scattered brushy vegetation (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range along the Pacific coast extends from southern British Columbia south to southern Baja California and Mexico; and east to central Saskatchewan, western North Dakota, western South Dakota, western Nebraska, western Kansas, western Oklahoma, and central and southern Texas.  Generally winters from northern California, southern Nevada, central Utah, northern New Mexico, and north-central Texas south throughout its breeding range; known to wander to the eastern regions of the continent (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Note reddish-brown tail with buffy corners in tip of tail and dark subterminal band.  Upperparts are more grayish in color; underparts are dull white with light streaking.  Song is a variety of repeated buzzes and trills that suggests Northern Mockingbird.

Nest Habits: Nests in burrows, rock crevices, and in other similar places.  Nest consists of grasses and small roots, and is lined with fur, animal hair, and feathers.  Entrance to nest often paved with stones, pebbles, and other small objects.

Eggs: 4-10, usually 5-6; 18 mm.; white, with brown markings.

Incubation: Both sexes care for the young.


SECRETS:
The song of the Canyon Wren is one of the most anticipated in the birding world; its loud, ringing, descending quality makes it easy to learn.  Once you hear it, you will always want to hear it again!

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Typically found along cliffs or in steep-sided canyons, especially where there are rocky outcrops and boulder piles (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: This species is resident from eastern Washington, southern interior British Columbia, and west-central Idaho east to Montana; and south (generally east of the Cascades and away from the coast) to southern Baja California, southern Arizona, Mexico, and western Texas; further north, range extends east to southwestern South Dakota and western Oklahoma (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Combination of white throat, reddish-brown upperparts and tail, grayish head, and rufous belly identify this wren.

Nest Habits: Nests in crevices, caves, deserted buildings, or in other types of sheltered areas.  Nest is built from twigs, mosses, spider's silk, leaves, and other vegetation; and is lined with fur and feathers.

Eggs: 4-7, usually 5-6; 18 mm.; white in color, lightly marked with brown.

Incubation: It is thought that both sexes care for the young.


SECRETS:
In Tennessee, Sedge Wrens magically appear in late July and are often heard singing; it remains unclear if these are late spring migrants, returning fall migrants, or potential breeders.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in grassy fields or marshes (usually with tall grass and some bushes); and in sedge meadows (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from east-central Alberta and central Saskatchewan east across southern Manitoba, and western & southern Ontario to central Maine; and south to northeastern Oklahoma, northwestern & east-central Arkansas, southern Illinois, central Kentucky, west-central West Virginia, and southeastern Virginia.  Generally winters from western Tennessee and Maryland south to southern New Mexico, Texas (and south into Mexico), the Gulf coast, and southern Florida (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Note buffy wash on sides and flanks; pale grayish-white underparts, and brownish upperparts with streaked crown and back.  Compare with Marsh Wren.  Formerly called Short-billed Marsh Wren.  Song is a series of introductory 'tick' notes followed by a dry, stuttering trill.

Nest Habits: Nests in sedges or grassy fields, where it builds a spherically-shaped nest about 1-2 feet above the ground.  Nest is constructed with grasses and sedges, and is lined with plant down, fur, and feathers.  Nest has a side entrance.  Like some other species of wrens, may also build dummy nests (i.e., nests built by male in the spring before the female arrives; such nests may or may not be accepted for use by the female).

Eggs: 4-8, usually 7; 16 mm.; white.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and both sexes care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 12-16 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 12-14 days old.


SECRETS:
In mild winters, Marsh Wrens may occur further north than usual; look for it in suitable habitat, especially in places with warm-water effluents (e.g., steam plants).

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in fresh-water and brackish marshes, usually in the presence of cattails, but also with tule, bulrushes, and reeds.  During migration and winter, also frequents rice fields, dense, wet grassy fields with scattered forbs and bushes, and salt marshes (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from southwestern and eastern British Columbia and northern Alberta east across central Saskatchewan, north-central Manitoba, western & southern Ontario, and southwestern Quebec to southern Maine, southeastern New Brunswick, and Nova Scotia; and south to northeastern Baja California, northwestern Mexico, southwestern Arizona, southern Nevada, southern Utah, northwestern and north-central New Mexico, and extreme western Texas; further east, breeding range extends south to southern Texas, the Gulf coast, and east-central Florida; however, its distribution throughout much of the continent's interior is very localized.  In the west, generally winters throughout much of its breeding range south to southern Baja California and into Mexico and southern Texas; further east, generally winters from southern New England and the southeastern U.S. south to the Gulf coast and southern Florida (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Note cinnamon wash to sides and on flanks; whitish belly and throat; brownish upperparts with streaked back (crown is not streaked as in Sedge Wren).  Bold white eyebrow is also useful in separating this species from Sedge Wren.  Formerly called Long-billed Marsh Wren.  Song is a highly variable vocalization, but typically consists of 1-2 low-pitched notes, a transitory squeak, and a terminal rattle or trill.  Call note is similar to Common Yellowthroat's but can be identified with practice.

Nest Habits: Nests in reeds over water, where it builds a spherically-shaped nest about 1-9 or more feet above the water's surface.  Nest has a side entrance, and is constructed with cattails and sedges; nest is then lined with feathers, grasses, and small roots.  Like some other species of wrens, may also build dummy nests (i.e., nests built by male in the spring before the female arrives; such nests may or may not be accepted for use by the female).

Eggs: 3-10, usually 4-6; 17 mm.; dull brown in color, with brown markings.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and both sexes care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 12-16 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 13-16 days old.


SECRETS:
In the east, the song of the Bewick's Wren resembles the song of the Song Sparrow; however, in the west, this resemblance is lost, and the songs heard there are much more variable.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in brushy areas, dense thickets, and scrubby habitats in open country; also frequents riparian woodlands and chaparral (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from southwestern British Columbia and southeastern Washington east across west-central and southern Nevada, northern Utah, southern Wyoming, extreme western and southern Colorado, Kansas, southeastern Iowa, southern Wisconsin, and southern Michigan east to central Pennsylvania and southeastern New York; and south to southern Baja California, Mexico, central Texas, northern Arkansas, the northern portions of the Gulf states, central Georgia, and central South Carolina.  In the winter, generally found throughout much of its western breeding range; further east, it is found from southeastern Colorado, southern Kansas, southern Missouri, the lower Ohio Valley, Tennessee, and North Carolina south to northern Florida, the Gulf coast, Texas, and Mexico (A.O.U. 1998).  Range in the eastern U.S. has declined substantially over the last half century.

Field Marks: Upperparts are brown or grayish-brown; note dull white underparts and distinctive eyebrow.  Tail is long and edged with white spots; tail is often held upright, typical of wrens, but is also often swished and swayed back and forth in an elaborate fashion, unlike other wrens.

Nest Habits: Nests in natural cavities, but also in crevices, brush piles, and other natural or man-made sheltered areas, generally up to 20 feet above the ground.  Nest is constructed with mosses, twigs, leaves, cotton, animal hair, and wool; and is lined with feathers and grass.

Eggs: 4-11, usually 5-7; 17 mm.; white in color, with brown, purple, lavender, or gray markings.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and both sexes care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 12-14 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 14 days old.


SECRETS:
The song of the Carolina Wren at times sounds like an exact match for the song of the Kentucky Warbler; however, the Carolina Wren's song is given more frequently and usually has a 3-syllabled quality to it.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in woodlands and in more open areas, usually where there is brushy undergrowth and dense thickets; also in residential areas with dense thickets and undergrowth.

Distribution: Resident breeding range along the Atlantic coast extends from southern Maine and extreme southwestern Quebec south to southern Florida; and west to southern Ontario, southern Michigan, southern Wisconsin, northern Iowa, and eastern Nebraska; and from there south to northeastern Colorado, central Kansas, west-central and southwestern Oklahoma, central Texas (including the Gulf coast), and eastern Mexico.  Actual limits of range may fluctuate in response to severely cold winters (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Reddish-brown upperparts, bold white eyestripe, and cinnamon-buff sides and flanks identify this woodland wren.

Nest Habits: Nests in a wide variety of situations, including cavities, on tree branch, amongst the roots of an upturned tree, etc., usually within 10 feet of the ground.  Nest is constructed with grasses, bark leaves, mosses, small roots, feathers, and other materials.

Eggs: 4-8, usually 5; 19 mm.; white or light pink in color, with brown markings.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and both sexes care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 12-14 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 12-14 days old.


SECRETS:
The Winter Wren is so secretive that you can often use it as a gauge of a birder's experience; birders who are unfamiliar with this tiny bird are either new to birding or make limited excursions to the Winter Wren's wet woodland haunts.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in coniferous and in mixed coniferous-deciduous forests, usually with a dense understory and often near water; in migration and during winter, may also be found in deciduous forests and woodlands, again with dense undergrowth.  Also frequents dense hedgerows, brushy fields, and even rocky coastal areas where there is dense, low cover (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from coastal southern & southeastern Alaska and coastal & central British Columbia east across northern Alberta, central Saskatchewan, central Manitoba, northern Ontario, central Quebec, and extreme southern Labrador to Newfoundland; and south to central California (along the coast and along the west slope of the Sierra Nevada), northeastern Oregon, central Idaho, northern Utah, western Montana, southwestern Alberta, southeastern Manitoba, the Great Lakes region, and northeastern Ohio east to northern Pennsylvania and northern New Jersey; and locally south in the Appalachian Mountains to Tennessee, North Carolina, and northeastern Georgia.  Winter range extends from southern Alaska, coastal and central British Columbia, southwestern Alberta, western Montana, eastern Colorado, southern Nebraska, southern Minnesota, and eastern Iowa east to central new York and Massachusetts and south to southern California, central and southeastern Arizona, southern New Mexico, northern Mexico, southern Texas, the Gulf coast, and central Florida (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Tiny size.  Flanks and belly have dark barring; also note extremely short tail, which is usually cocked upward.  When disturbed, skulks about in the brush, playing hide-and-seek with the observer, at the same time, bobbing up-and-down and uttering its 'kip!' or 'kip-kip!' calls.  Song is much more elaborate than call; songs last many seconds and consist of a variety of high-pitched musical trills and whistles.

Nest Habits: Nests in a wide variety of situations, including cavities, under stream banks, inside buildings, amongst the roots of an upturned tree, etc., usually within 6 feet of the ground.  Nest is constructed with twigs, mosses, grasses, and small roots; and is lined with animal hair and feathers.  Like some other species of wrens, may also build dummy nests (i.e., nests built by male in the spring before the female arrives; such nests may or may not be accepted for use by the female).

Eggs: 4-7, usually 5-6; 17 mm.; white in color, with brown markings.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and cares for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 16 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 19 days old.


SECRETS:
Two subspecies in the West Indies (Guadeloupe and St. Lucia House Wrens) are listed as Endangered.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in thickets and shrubby areas of open landscapes, woodlands, forests, residential areas, or park-like situations, including chaparral and brushy fields.

Distribution: Breeding range extends from southern & northeastern British Columbia and northern Alberta east across central Saskatchewan, and southern Manitoba east to Maine; and south to northern Baja California, southern California, southern Nevada, central and southeastern Arizona, southern New Mexico (and south into Mexico), western & northern Texas, and northwestern Arkansas east to the Carolinas.  Generally winters from central California, southern Nevada, northern Arizona, southern New Mexico, and southern Oklahoma east to the Atlantic coast (and locally north to coastal Maryland); and south to southern Baja California, throughout Mexico, Texas, the Gulf coast, and southern Florida.  Occasionally found in winter north of this range (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: This brownish wren is larger than similar Winter Wren, and has a longer tail and less obvious barring on flanks and belly.  Note faint eye ring and indistinct, buffy eyebrow.  Gives a variety of harsh scolding notes; song is rich, rapid, and bubbly.

Nest Habits: Nests in tree cavities, but actual location and placement can be quite varied (e.g., flower pots, empty cow skulls, etc); will also usurp bluebird boxes when such structures are placed too close to its preferred thicket-like habitat.  Nest is generally placed up to 20 feet above the ground and is constructed with twigs and grasses; and lined with feathers, animal hair, spiders' cocoons, wool, and other plant vegetation.

Eggs: 5-12, usually 6-8; 16 mm.; white, with brown markings.

Incubation: Incubation lasts approximately 13 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 12-18 days old.


SECRETS:
The large, oval-shaped nest of this species may contain a couple thousand interlaced twigs (Terres 1980).

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in arid lowland and montane scrub, and in residential areas (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Resident breeding range extends from Mexico and southern Baja California north to northeastern Baja California, southeastern California, southern Nevada, southwestern Utah, northwestern Arizona, southern New Mexico, southwestern Oklahoma, and central Texas (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: This tiny grayish bird has red patch at bend of wing; note yellow head and throat.

Nest Habits: Nests in shrubs or trees, generally up to 2-20 feet above the ground.  Nest is an oval-shaped structure that is constructed with thorny twigs and lined with leaves, grasses, feathers, plant down, and spider's silk.

Eggs: 3-6, usually 4-5; 15 mm.; bluish-white or greenish-white in color, with reddish-brown markings.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and both sexes care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 10 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 21 days old.


SECRETS:
Call note, a wheezy 'teezzzz', identifies this species in all seasons; song is a varied collection of such notes and has a warbling quality to it.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in deciduous, pine-oak, riparian, and pinyon-juniper woodlands; also frequents scrubby areas, including chaparral, brushy washes, and second-growth areas (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from southern Oregon, the Pryor Mountains in Montana, southwestern Wyoming, Colorado, eastern Nebraska, southeastern South Dakota, and central Minnesota east to New England; and south to southern Baja California, Mexico, southeastern Texas, the Gulf coast, and southern Florida.  Generally winters from central California, southern Nevada, western and central Arizona, central Texas, and the southern portions of the Gulf states east to the Atlantic coast (north to southern Virginia) south throughout Mexico and Central America; but may occur in small numbers north of this range in the winter (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Bluish-gray upperparts, white below; note eye ring and extensive amount of white on underside of tail; white outer tail feathers are visible from above.

Nest Habits: Nests in trees, generally up to 2-25 or more feet above the ground.  Nest is a cup-shaped structure built from lichens, spider's silk, and plant fibers and lined with bark strips, feathers, animal hair, and grasses.

Eggs: 3-6, usually 4-5; 14 mm.; light blue, with reddish-brown markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 13 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 10-12 days old.


SECRETS:
In the winter, Blue-gray and California Gnatcatchers can be found in the same brushy or shrubby fields; however, they can still be readily identified due to the differences in their plumage and in their call notes.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in coastal sage scrub and in desert brush (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Limited (and somewhat local) resident range extends from southwestern California and northwestern Baja California south to southern Baja California (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: This is the duskiest of all the gnatcatchers, with brownish hue most apparent on upperparts.  Seen from below, the tail feathers appear mostly black (compare with Blue-gray Gnatcatcher); also told from Blue-gray Gnatcatcher by its call note, which is more harsh and whiny than that given by Blue-grays.  Note: this species was formerly regarded as a subspecies of the Black-tailed Gnatcatcher.

Nest Habits: Nests in shrubs, generally up to 1-4 feet above the ground.  Nest is a cup-shaped structure built from leaves, plant down, and spider's silk.

Eggs: 3-5, usually 4; 14 mm.; green or light blue, with brown markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 14 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 9-15 days old.


SECRETS:
The tail is the best way to tell this species from similar Blue-gray Gnatcatcher; in the latter species, the outer two tail feathers & basal portion of a third on each side of tail are white.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in arid lowland and montane scrub habitats (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: This species is resident from Mexico north to northeastern Baja California, southeastern California, southern Nevada, southwestern Utah, western & central Arizona, southwestern New Mexico, and western & southern Texas (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Upperparts are bluish-gray and underparts are grayish white; male shows black cap in breeding plumage.  Compare closely with Blue-gray Gnatcatcher, which shows more white on underside of tail.  In this species, underside of tail appears mostly black.

Nest Habits: Nests in shrubs, generally up to 1-4 feet above the ground.  Nest is a cup-shaped structure built from leaves, plant down, and spider's silk.

Eggs: 3-5, usually 4; 14 mm.; green or light blue, with brown markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 14 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 9-15 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in arid lowland scrub habitats and in thorn forests (A.O.U. 1998; Howell and Webb 1995).

Distribution: Native to Mexico; formerly bred (and may still irregularly do so) in extreme southern Arizona (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Note white outer tail feathers, which display more white in tail than seen in Black-tailed Gnatcatcher; also, black cap is more extensive (extends below the eye) than in Black-tailed Gnatcatcher.

Nest Habits: Breeding status in the United States is uncertain.


SECRETS:
Want to play a game?  Try just viewing only ONE Bushtit; typically, when you see one, you'll see lots of others due to their gregarious, flocking behavior.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in oak scrub, pinyon-juniper, and pine-oak woodlands; also frequents chaparral and wooded suburban areas (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Resident breeding range along the Pacific coast extends from extreme southwestern British Columbia south to southern Baja California and Mexico; and east to central Washington, southeastern Oregon, southwestern Idaho, northern Nevada, north-central Utah, southwestern Wyoming, north-central Colorado, western Oklahoma, and central Texas.  Absent from the majority of central Baja California and from high elevations in the Sierra Nevada (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: These tiny, short-billed, grayish birds are identified by the lack of yellow on the face (compare with Verdin), their energetic behavior, and the sharp, twittering 'tsit' calls that they give.

Nest Habits: Nests in trees or shrubs, generally up to 4-25 or more feet above the ground.  Nest is a pendulous, gourd-shaped structure built from twigs, mosses, small roots, lichens, leaves, and spider's silk; and lined with plant down, animal hair, and feathers.

Eggs: 5-13, usually 5-7; 14 mm.; white.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 12 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 14-15 days old.


SECRETS:
Immature Tree Swallows have brownish upperparts, and are sometimes misidentified.  Compare closely with Sand Martin (i.e., Bank Swallow) and Northern Rough-winged Swallows.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in open areas, usually near a source of water (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from Alaska and northern Yukon east across northwestern and southern Mackenzie, northern Saskatchewan, northern Manitoba, and northern Ontario east to central Labrador and Newfoundland; and south to southern California, central Nevada, northern Arizona, northern New Mexico, most of Texas, southern Tennessee, northern Alabama, northern Georgia, and western North Carolina; however, its distribution east of the Rockies and south of the upper Mississippi and Ohio valleys is very localized.  Generally winters along the southern border of the U.S. (north to northern California along the Pacific coast and to New Jersey on the Atlantic coast) south into Mexico and Baja California.

Field Marks: Dark, greenish-blue on upperparts; note completely white underparts.  White on side of cheek does not extend above eye (compare with Violet-green Swallow).

Nest Habits: May breed in loose colonies.  Nests in natural or man-made cavities, including nest boxes (will use bluebird nest boxes).  Cavities in dead snags are often used.  Nest is generally placed 5 feet or higher above the ground, and is constructed with grasses and straws; and lined with feathers.

Eggs: 4-6; 19 mm.; white.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and both sexes care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 13-16 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 20 days old.


SECRETS:
If a swallow is perched and you suspect it is a Violet-green, concentrate on the face; these birds, unlike Tree Swallows, show white in the cheek that extends above the eye.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in open areas, open woodlands, in highlands, in mountain canyons, and in deserts; often seen further from water than Tree Swallow; however, favors areas near water in the winter.

Distribution: Breeding range along the Pacific coast extends from central Alaska south to southern Baja California and Mexico; and east to extreme southwestern Mackenzie, west-central Alberta, extreme southwestern Saskatchewan, western North Dakota, western South Dakota, and northwestern Nebraska south to western Texas.  In the winter, generally found from central coastal California and Mexico south to Central America (A.O.U. 1998)

Field Marks: Dark, purplish- or violet-green on upperparts; note completely white underparts.  White on side of cheek extends above eye (compare with Tree Swallow).  Also note that outer edges of rump are white (visible from above on flying birds).

Nest Habits: May breed in small colonies.  Nests in natural or man-made cavities, including tree cavities, nest boxes, rock crevices, and abandoned woodpecker holes.  Nest is generally placed 5 feet or higher above the ground, and is constructed with grasses and weed stems; and lined with feathers.

Eggs: 4-7, usually 4-5; 19 mm.; white.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and both sexes care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 13-14 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 16-24 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in pine forests (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Native to the Bahama Islands and Cuba; considered to be an irregular visitor in migration to Florida (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Note the noticeably forked tail, more deeply forked than in Tree Swallow.

Nest Habits: Does not breed in the United States.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in pastures, along rivers, and in seasonally wet grasslands (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Native to South America; considered accidental in Massachusetts (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Brown upperparts, with darker wings and tail. Underparts are white, with a broad brown breast band.  Tail is forked.

Nest Habits: Does not breed in North America.


SECRETS:
Although many thousands of these birds can be seen in one location in eastern North America, this species rarely is seen in groups numbering more than 10-15 birds in the western U.S.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: During the breeding season, presence in eastern North America is largely tied to availability of artificial nest boxes: in towns, farmlands, and in even more remote areas; in the west, typically found in open pine and pine-oak associations (A.O.U. 1998).  Outside the breeding season, found in open areas, often near water.

Distribution: In the west, breeding range extends from southwestern British Columbia, western Washington, western Oregon, and eastern Idaho south to southern Baja California, Mexico, northern Arizona, central Utah, western Colorado, New Mexico, and western Texas.  Further east, breeding range extends from central Alberta, central Saskatchewan, and southern Manitoba east to southern New Brunswick and central Nova Scotia; and south (east of the Rocky Mountains) to southern Texas, the Gulf coast, and southern Florida.  It is thought that Purple Martins migrate to South America for the winter (A.O.U. 1998)

Field Marks: Overall, males show a deep, purplish-blue gloss; note the forked tail.  Females are grayer below, and are palest on the belly.

Nest Habits: Breeds in colonies, especially in the east, where it often inhabits 'multi-apartment' nest boxes erected by humans.  Nests in artificial boxes or in cavities on the sides of buildings; generally 5 or more feet above the ground.  Nest materials include grasses, leaves, twigs, feathers, mud, rags, and various other objects.  May also nest in tree cavities, rock ledge on cliff face, or even under bridges.  Note: Common Starlings and House Sparrows compete with Purple Martins for nesting sites.

Eggs: 3-8, usually 4-5; 24 mm.; white.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and both sexes care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 15-18 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 26-31 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in pastures and in second-growth scrub habitats (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Native to Mexico, Central America, and South America; considered a casual visitor to southern Texas (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Males have glossy, bluish-black upperparts; grayish-brown on underparts, with whitish belly and undertail coverts.  Females are similar but with dusky brown upperparts.  Tail is forked.

Nest Habits: Does not breed in the United States.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in second-growth scrub habitats and in seasonally wet grasslands (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Native to South America; considered accidental in southern Florida (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Adult males may not be safely separated from adult male Purple Martins in the field; females are told by lack of grayish-white belly (compare with female Purple and Gray-breasted Martins).

Nest Habits: Does not breed in North America.


SECRETS:
The calls of this species and the Sand Martin (i.e., Bank Swallow) can sometimes be confused; Rough-winged's call is a simple, raspy or buzzy 'splurt' or 'brrrtt'; Sand Martin's call is more twittering: a long series of 'brrtt' notes.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Usually found near rivers or streams with steep banks, in open or partly open habitats; in migration, also frequents open country and more extensive wetlands (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeds in Baja California, most of Mexico, and throughout the continental United States (except southeastern Florida), north to southeastern Alaska, central British Columbia, central Alberta, central Saskatchewan, southern Manitoba, western & southern Ontario, southern Quebec, southwestern New Brunswick, and southwestern Nova Scotia.  Generally winters from the extreme lower portions of the continental United States south into Mexico and Central America (A.O.U. 1998)

Field Marks: Upperparts are brown; undersides are white, but note grayish smudge on upper breast and throat, not to be confused with breast band of Sand Martin (i.e., Bank Swallow).

Nest Habits: May breed in loose colonies, but usually a solitary nester.  Nests in burrows which it builds itself; also in burrows abandoned by other birds or mammals.  Nest locations are usually on stream bank, but it may also use gravel pits, sides of buildings, or sewer pipes.  Nest is generally placed 4 or more feet above the ground.  Nest materials include grasses, leaves, small roots, and bark chips.

Eggs: 4-8, usually 5-6; 18 mm.; white.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and both sexes care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 12 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 19-21 days old.


SECRETS:
The calls of this species & the N. Rough-winged Swallow can sometimes be confused; Sand Martin's call is a long, twittering series of 'brrtt' notes; Rough-winged's call is a raspy or buzzy 'brrrtt', given singly or occasionally repeated.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in open or partly open areas, usually near river or stream banks (where it nests, but it may also nest in bank of gravel pit, or on coastal cliffs).  In migration, also frequents open country and more extensive wetlands.

Distribution: Breeding range extends from western & central Alaska and northern Yukon east across northwestern & south-central Mackenzie, northern Saskatchewan, northern Manitoba, northern Ontario, south-central Quebec, and southern Labrador to southwestern Newfoundland; and south to central California, western Nevada, Utah, northern New Mexico, Kansas, northeastern Oklahoma, and Tennessee east to West Virginia and Virginia.  Several disjunct populations are also known in central New Mexico, south-central Texas, and in Mexico.  Migrates to South America for the winter (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Upperparts are brown; undersides are white, but note dark grayish-brown breast band, not to be confused with grayish smudge on upper breast and throat of Northern Rough-winged Swallow.

Nest Habits: Breeds in colonies.  Nests in burrows which it excavates itself; generally 4 or more feet above the ground.  Nest materials include grasses, weed stems, small roots, pine needles, animal hair, and feathers.

Eggs: 4-8, usually 4-5; 18 mm.; white.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 14-16 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 18-24 days old.


SECRETS:
Did you know that Cliff and Barn Swallow are at the center of an intense controversy? They nest under the eaves of buildings, where they deposit copious amount of white wash. As a conservationist, what, if anything, would you do about this?

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in open areas, usually near water (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from south-coastal & southeastern Alaska and southern Yukon east across central-western Mackenzie, northern Saskatchewan, northern Manitoba, and northern Ontario east to southern Newfoundland; and south to extreme northwestern Baja California, Mexico, the Gulf coast, north-central Florida, and southern North Carolina.  Migrates to Mexico, Central America, and South America for the winter (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Deeply forked tail, reddish-orange throat, and buffy-orange underparts identify this swallow.

Nest Habits: Breeds in colonies, but sometimes a solitary nester.  Nests in a wide variety of situations, including caves, rock crevices on cliff face, under eaves of buildings, under bridges, or in burrows, generally from 6-40 or more feet above the ground.  Most commonly seen nesting on sides of building or under bridges.  Nest is a cup-shaped structure constructed of mud and grasses; and lined with feathers and animal hair.

Eggs: 4-7, usually 4-5; 19 mm.; white, with brown markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs (however, mostly by female) and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 13-17 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 18-23 days old.


SECRETS:
If you have ever seen Cliff Swallows flocking repeatedly to a shallow, muddy pool, they are not looking for water or food; on the contrary, they are gathering mud for use as nest-building material.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in open areas, usually near water; presence is largely tied to presence of bridges, dams, or buildings on which it places its nests.  In migration, also frequents more extensive wetlands.

Distribution: Breeding range extends from western & central Alaska and northern Yukon east across northern Mackenzie, central Keewatin, northern Manitoba, northern Ontario, and southern Quebec east to New Brunswick and Nova Scotia; and south to northern Baja California, Mexico, the Gulf coast (but note that on the Gulf coast it breeds only between Texas and southern Alabama), northern Georgia, and central South Carolina.  Migrates to South America for the winter, but may occasionally be found in southern California (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Square-cut tail, buffy-orange rump, and buffy forehead identify this swallow.

Nest Habits: Breeds in colonies.  Nests in a wide variety of situations, ranging from cliff and canyon walls, to bridges or dams, and on the side of buildings or barns.  Nest is placed 3 or more feet above the ground; often very high (dams or bridges).  Nest is a gourd-shaped structure constructed of mud and lined with feathers and grasses.  Within the colony, many nests may be built, and adjacent nests may be touching one another; nests are frequently repaired for use in subsequent years.

Eggs: 3-6, usually 4-5; 20 mm.; white, creamy-white, or pinkish-white in color, with brown markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 14-16 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 21-24 days old.


SECRETS:
The Cave Swallow's positive population trend estimate of 47.6% per year is larger than any other species over the same time frame (1966-1996).

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in open areas, including grasslands, pastures, and in scrubby habitats; also frequents areas of human habitation.  Nests on buildings, in caves or sinkholes, or under bridges (A.O.U. 1998; Howell and Webb 1995).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from northern Arizona, southeastern New Mexico, and central & southern Texas south into Mexico.  Wintering birds are now being found in southern Texas and Mexico, with strays regularly recorded in southern Florida, along parts of the Gulf coast, and northward along the Atlantic coast.  Casual or accidental elsewhere in North America (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Compare closely with Cliff Swallow; told from that species by buff-color on the throat and by orangish forehead; throat color is diagnostic.

Nest Habits: Nest is placed 3 or more feet above the ground (see Habitat section above for nest locations).  Nest is a cup-shaped structure constructed of mud and lined with feathers and grasses.

Eggs: 3-5, usually 3-4; 20 mm.; white in color, with brown markings.

Incubation: It is thought that both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 15-18 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 21-23 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in or near areas of human settlement (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Native to Europe, Asia, Africa, and India; considered accidental in Alaska; a casual visitor to Greenland (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: White underparts, dark blue upperparts, forked tail, and white rump.

Nest Habits: Does not breed in North America.


SECRETS:
Ruby-crowned Kinglets have a blackish area in wing, below the 2nd wing bar; this feature is absent from similar Hutton's Vireo. Presence of Ruby-crowned Kinglet is often revealed by its dry 'ji-dit' call note.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in a wide variety of habitats ranging from areas of brushy or dense second-growth to park-like and riparian woodlands, more densely stocked woodlands and forests, and muskeg (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from Alaska and north-central Yukon east across northwestern and southern Mackenzie, northern Saskatchewan, northern Manitoba, and northern Ontario east to Labrador and Newfoundland; and south to south-central and eastern California, central & southern Arizona, southern New Mexico, east-central Colorado, and southwestern South Dakota.  Further east, range extends south to central-eastern Alberta, central Saskatchewan, southern Manitoba, the Great Lakes region, northern New York, northern Maine, and Nova Scotia.  In the winter, it is found throughout Baja California, most of Mexico, in southern Texas, along the Gulf coast, and in southern Florida north to southwestern British Columbia, Idaho, Utah, northern New Mexico, southeastern Nebraska, Kansas, Illinois, southern Michigan, southern Ontario, and New Jersey (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Olive-green upperparts, two white wing bars, conspicuous eye ring, and (in males, but not always visible) red crown patch.  Song is comprised of several high-pitched introductory notes followed by a rapid, jumbling cacophony of rich, bubbly notes.  Note habit of frequently flicking its wings, as if it were nervous.

Nest Habits: Nests in trees, generally up to 2-100 feet above the ground.  Nest is a pendulous structure built from moss, lichens, plant down, twigs, and leaves.

Eggs: 5-11, usually 7-9; 14 mm.; white or cream in color, with brown or gray markings.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and both sexes care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 12 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 12 days old.


SECRETS:
Golden-crowned Kinglets often forage high in the canopy, when their presence is usually only revealed by its high-pitched 'tsee-tsee-tsee' call. Note that this call is usually 3-syllabled; compare with Brown Creeper's call.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Breeds in coniferous forests and woodlands; during migration and winter, also frequents deciduous woodlands and park-like habitats (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from southern Alaska and southern Yukon east across northern Alberta, northern Saskatchewan, northern Manitoba, northern Ontario, and south-central Quebec east to Nova Scotia and Newfoundland; and south to south-central California, extreme western & northeastern Nevada (note absence from central Nevada in breeding season), southern Utah, central & southeastern Arizona, and southern New Mexico (and south into Mexico).  Further east, range extends south to central eastern Alberta, southern Manitoba, the Great Lakes region, and New York; also to southeastern Pennsylvania, north-central Maryland, and northern New Jersey.  Finally, it breeds locally south in the Appalachian Mountains to Tennessee and North Carolina.  In the winter, it is found in south-coastal Alaska and from southern Canada south to northern Baja California, Mexico, the Gulf coast, and northern Florida (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Olive-gray upperparts, two white wing bars; differs from Ruby-crowned Kinglet by having dark eye line, white eyebrow, and dark line above eyebrow.  Crown is orangish-yellow in male; yellow in female.  May be found singly or in small flocks.  Song consists of several high-pitched introductory notes followed by a chickadee-like chatter.

Nest Habits: Nests in trees, generally up to 4-60 feet above the ground.  Nest is a globular or pendulous structure built from mosses and lichens, and lined with bark strips, small roots, and feathers.

Eggs: 5-11, usually 8-9; 14 mm.; white or cream in color, with brown or gray markings.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and both sexes care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 14-15 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 14-19 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in suburban areas and in parks (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Native to Asia and India; introduced (and now established) in Florida (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Note crest, white underparts, reddish undertail coverts.  Red patch just below and behind eye clinches identification.

Nest Habits: Nests in shrub or tree.  Lays 3 eggs.  Both sexes incubate the eggs; incubation lasts approximately 12-14 days.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in marshes and wet meadows (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Native to Asia; considered accidental in Alaska and California (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Note olive-brown upperparts, which are streaked; white below, with dark brown streaking on breast.  Compare with Middendorff's Warbler, which is larger.

Nest Habits: Does not breed in North America.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in dense grassy and bushy areas (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Native to Asia; considered a casual visitor to Alaska (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Note olive-brown upperparts, which are streaked.  Underparts vary from mostly white in breeding season to dull yellow in the fall, when it may also show faint streaks on breast (compare with smaller Lanceolated Warbler).  White eyebrow.

Nest Habits: Does not breed in North America.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in forests and woodlands (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Native to Europe and Asia; considered accidental in Alaska (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Pale grayish-olive upperparts; underparts are white, with yellow on throat and breast.  Wings show yellowish hue.

Nest Habits: Does not breed in North America.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in bushes or scrubby habitats in hilly or mountainous areas (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Native to Asia and India; considered a casual visitor to Alaska; accidental in California (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Grayish-brown back and wings, with no wing bars (compare with similar Arctic Warbler).  Breast and belly are dull white or buff-colored.

Nest Habits: Does not breed in North America.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in riparian areas, where it frequents dense willow, birch, or alder thickets (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range encompasses western and central Alaska; also breeds in Europe and Asia.  Winters in Asia; considered accidental in California (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Olive-colored back and wings; wings usually show a faint, whitish wing bar.  Whitish or yellowish-white eyebrow bends slightly upward at rear of head.  Underparts are mostly white, but in the fall become more yellowish.  Compare with Orange-crowned and Tennessee Warblers; also with Dusky Warbler.

Nest Habits: Nests on the ground, where it builds a dome- or oven-shaped nest with a side entrance.  Nest materials include weed stems, grasses, and mosses; nest is lined with fine grass and feathers.

Eggs: 5-7, usually 6-7; 16 mm.; white in color, sometimes with reddish-brown markings.

Incubation: Young are capable of flight when they are about 11-12 days old.


SECRETS:
Like the California Thrasher, Wrentits can sometimes be found eating poison oak berries.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in chaparral, coastal sage scrub, and other brushy areas, including suburban areas with dense undergrowth (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: This species is resident in coastal areas from northwestern Oregon south to northwestern Baja California; range extends somewhat into the interior in northern and central California (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Generally grayish-brown, but birds in the northern part of the range are more reddish-brown; underparts are slightly paler, and have dusky streaking.  Note pale eye.  Song consists of a series of loud, emphatic, whistle-like notes followed by a trill; suggests a bouncing ball with increasing tempo at the end; also gives a grinding, rattle-like call.

Nest Habits: Nests in shrubs or trees, generally up to 1-15 feet above the ground.  Nest is a cup-shaped structure built from bark, grasses, spider's silk, and plant fibers; and is lined with animal hair.

Eggs: 3-5, usually 4; 18 mm.; light greenish-blue.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 15-16 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 15-16 days old.


SECRETS:
The ranges of the Carolina & Black-capped Chickadees overlap slightly; an interesting overlap area is the Great Smoky Mountains in TN, where Carolina Chickadees are absent as a breeding bird above 1200 m, which is where Black-cappeds breed.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in woodlands, parks, suburban areas, and in residential areas (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: This species is resident from southern Kansas south to central and southeastern Texas; and east to central Missouri, central Illinois, central Indiana, northern Ohio, southern Pennsylvania, and central New Jersey.  Along the Atlantic coast, range extends south to central Florida (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Black cap and bib, grayish back and wings, and white underparts.  Told from Black-capped Chickadees by voice (4-note song), and by absence of white streaking in wing.

Nest Habits: Nests in natural cavities, or in cavity which it excavates itself, generally up to 1-23 feet above the ground.  Nest is usually in a tree, but can also be placed in a pipe, bird house, or in wooden post.  Nest materials include mosses, bark strips, grasses, plant down, feathers, and animal hair.

Eggs: 3-8, usually 6; 15 mm.; white in color, with brown markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 11-12 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 13-17 days old.


SECRETS:
Roger Tory Peterson once described this species' song as 'fee-bee', with the first note higher. To the novice birder, however, hearing this song without seeing the bird immediately causes one to think they have found an Eastern Phoebe!

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in woodlands, parks, suburban areas, and in residential areas; may occur almost anywhere that there are at least a few trees and shrubs present.

Distribution: Resident breeding range extends from Alaska and southern Yukon east across southwestern Mackenzie, northern Saskatchewan, north-central Manitoba, and northern Ontario east to south-central Quebec and Newfoundland; and south to northwestern California, southern Oregon, northeastern Nevada, southeastern Utah, central New Mexico, southern Kansas, southwestern and central Missouri, central Illinois, and northern Indiana east to southern Pennsylvania and northern New Jersey.  Range extends locally south in the Appalachian Mountains to western Virginia, Tennessee, and North Carolina (A.O.U. 1998).  Range overlaps slightly with Carolina Chickadee, but in some years irruptions occur and Black-cappeds move further south than the range described above.  Note: some hybridization does occur between Black-capped and Carolina Chickadees (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Black cap and bib, grayish back and wings, and white underparts.  Told from Carolina Chickadees by voice (2- or 3-note song), and by presence of white streaking (i.e., white edgings to wing coverts and secondary feathers) in wing.

Nest Habits: Nests in natural cavities, or in cavity which it excavates itself, generally up to 10 or more feet above the ground.  Nest is usually in a tree, but can also be placed in a bird house.  Nest materials include animal hair, mosses, feathers, insect cocoons, and other plant fibers.

Eggs: 5-10, usually 6-8; 16 mm.; white in color, with brown markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 11-13 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 14-18 days old.


SECRETS:
This a bird of montane environments, but there is usually some movements to lower elevations in the winter. However, in some winters it may make notable invasions into lowlands and interior valleys.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in montane coniferous forests; also frequents pine-oak and riparian woodlands, and suburban areas (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Resident breeding range extends from northwestern and central British Columbia, west-central Alberta, and central Montana south (but generally absent from coastal mountain ranges) to northern Baja California, southern California, southern Nevada, central and southeastern Arizona, southern New Mexico, and extreme western Texas (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Similar to other chickadees, but has white eyebrow above black eye line; sides also tend to be grayer, with some variation.

Nest Habits: Nests in natural cavities, or in cavity which it excavates itself, generally up to 15 or more feet above the ground.  Nest is usually in a tree, but can also be placed in a bird house.  Nest materials include plant fibers, animal hair, mosses, and fur.

Eggs: 5-12, usually 5-9; 16 mm.; white in color, with brown markings.

Incubation: Both sexes care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 14 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 21 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in coniferous (pine, spruce/fir, or pine-oak) forests (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Resident breeding range extends from extreme southeastern Arizona and southwestern New Mexico south into Mexico (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Similar to Mountain Chickadee, but lacks white eyebrow, and black bib is more extensive, continuing from throat onto the upper breast.  Calls have a buzzy and wheezy quality to them.

Nest Habits: Nests in cavities, generally up to 5-45 feet above the ground.  Nest materials include plant down and fur.

Eggs: 5-8, usually 6; 14 mm.; white in color, with reddish-brown markings.

Incubation: Both sexes care for the young.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in boreal coniferous forest patches, and in stream basins; also frequents willow and aspen thickets (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Resident breeding range includes Alaska, northern Yukon, and northwestern Mackenzie; also breeds in Europe and Asia (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Grayish-brown head and back; wings and tail grayer; wings have pale edgings on coverts.  Sides and flanks have a light buffy color.  Compare with Boreal Chickadee, which has a smaller white cheek patch, gray wing coverts, and grayish-brown sides and flanks.

Nest Habits: Nests in tree cavities, generally up to 5-7 feet above the ground.  Nest materials include mosses and fur.

Eggs: 6-9; 16 mm.; white in color, with brown markings.

Incubation: It is thought that female incubates the eggs and both sexes care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 14 days.


SECRETS:
In the Great Lakes region, looking for Boreal Chickadee's can be a hit-or-miss proposition; too often, the call you hear turns out to be a Black-capped Chickadee. Listen for Boreal's slower, more nasal 'chick-chee-day-day'.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in boreal coniferous and in mixed coniferous-deciduous woodlands (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Resident breeding range extends from Alaska and northern Yukon east across northwestern and southeastern Mackenzie, northern Ontario, and northern Quebec east to northern Labrador and Newfoundland; and south to British Columbia, north-central and northeastern Washington, northwestern Montana, southwestern and central Alberta, central Saskatchewan, southern Manitoba, the Great Lakes region, and northern New York east to northern New Hampshire, central Maine, and Nova Scotia.  Post-breeding wanderers are documented as far south as Maryland, Iowa, and West Virginia (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Grayish-brown above, with noticeably brown cap; sides and flanks are brown or rufous in color.  Compare with Siberian Tit, which has a larger white cheek patch, pale edges on wing coverts, and buffy sides and flanks.

Nest Habits: Nests in natural cavities, or in cavity which it excavates itself, generally up to 10 feet above the ground.  Nest materials include mosses, lichens, bark strips, plant down, and animal hair or fur.

Eggs: 4-9, usually 5-8; 16 mm.; white in color, with brown markings.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and both sexes care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 15 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 18 days old.


SECRETS:
In the Fall, do you want to find lots of warblers? Walk through the woods and listen for the calls of the Chickadee; warblers often won't be too far behind (they flock together). This trick works in the East, too!

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in coniferous and mixed coniferous-deciduous woodlands; also frequents oak and riparian woodlands (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Resident from south-coastal and southeastern Alaska south (primarily through the coast ranges) to southern California.  Range extends inland to south-central British Columbia, northern Idaho, and northwestern Montana; also through the interior ranges of California to the central region of that state (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Chestnut back is unique among chickadees; also note chestnut sides and flanks, which are present on most individuals except for birds on the central California coast.

Nest Habits: May breed in loose colonies.  Nests in natural cavities, or in cavity which it excavates itself, generally up to 20 or more feet above the ground.  Nest materials include mosses, animal hair, and feathers.

Eggs: 5-9, usually 6-7; 16 mm.; white in color, with reddish-brown markings.

Incubation: Little information is known.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in oak and pine-oak woodlands (Howell and Webb 1995).

Distribution: Resident breeding range extends from Mexico north into central and southeastern Arizona and to southwestern and south-central New Mexico (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Black bib and black-and-white facial pattern are unique among North American titmice.

Nest Habits: Nests in natural cavities, generally up to 4-28 feet above the ground.  Nest materials include plant down, grasses, leaves, and other vegetation; also fur and insect cocoons.

Eggs: 5-7; 16 mm.; white.

Incubation: Little information is known.


SECRETS:
Formerly classified with the Juniper Titmouse under the name Plain Titmouse.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in oak and pine-oak woodlands; also frequents chaparral interspersed with trees or tall shrubs (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Resident breeding range extends from southwestern Oregon south to southern Baja California; specifically occurs west of the Sierra Nevada.  Note: it is absent from most of central Baja California (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Drab, grayish-brown titmouse; note crest.

Nest Habits: Nests in natural cavities, generally up to 3-35 feet above the ground.  Nest materials include mosses, grasses, and other plant vegetation; and is lined with feathers, animal hair, and fur.

Eggs: 3-9, usually 6-8; 17 mm.; white in color, sometimes with reddish-brown markings.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and both sexes care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 14-16 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 16-21 days old.


SECRETS:
Formerly classified with the Oak Titmouse under the name Plain Titmouse; most field guides do not yet have good field marks that can be used to separate these two species in the field.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in pinyon-juniper woodlands (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Resident breeding range extends from southeastern Oregon and northeastern Nevada east across southeastern Idaho, southern Wyoming, and central Colorado to extreme western Oklahoma; and south to southeastern California, central and southeastern Arizona, northwestern Mexico, southern New Mexico, and extreme western Texas; specifically occurs east of the Sierra Nevada range in California (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Drab, grayish titmouse; note crest.

Nest Habits: Nests in natural cavities, generally up to 3-35 feet above the ground.  Nest materials include mosses, grasses, and other plant vegetation; and is lined with feathers, animal hair, and fur.

Eggs: 3-9, usually 6-8; 17 mm.; white in color, sometimes with reddish-brown markings.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and both sexes care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 14-16 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 16-21 days old.


SECRETS:
Birders who are well-versed in the ways of 'pishing' (i.e., making squeaky noises with one's mouth) can attract large flocks of chickadees, titmice, sparrows, and some warblers; all without taking a step!  Try it out yourself.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in forests and woodlands, including riparian woodlands; also frequents suburban and residential areas, and park-like habitats with tall trees (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Resident breeding range along the Atlantic coast extends from central Maine south to southern Florida; and west to southern Ontario, southeastern Minnesota, northeastern Nebraska, central Kansas, west-central Oklahoma, and western and northern Texas (including the Gulf coast).  From Texas, range extends south into Mexico (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Like all titmice, has a distinct crest; plumage is enhanced by rusty flanks.  Note black forehead; black-crested form of this species, formerly recognized as a distinct species, occurs in the southwestern portion of Tufted Titmouse's range.

Nest Habits: Nests in natural cavities, generally up to 3-90 feet above the ground.  Nest is usually in a tree, but can also be placed in a pipe, bird house, or in wooden post.  Nest materials include wool, mosses, leaves, bark, and animal hair.

Eggs: 4-8, usually 5-7; 18 mm.; white or cream-white in color, with brown markings.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and both sexes care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 13-14 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 15-18 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in fields with tall grass (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Native to Europe, Asia, and Africa.  In migration, regularly found in the western Aleutian Islands.  Introduced (and now established) in British Columbia, on southern Vancouver Island; and has recently spread to San Juan Island, Washington; it is resident in both of these areas.  Considered accidental in California (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Brownish-gray back and wings, buffy-white below.  Back is streaked, and dark streaking also occurs on breast.  May display a slight crest.  Also note dark eye.

Nest Habits: Nests on the ground, in grasslands or in crop fields; nest is a saucer-shaped depression lined with roots, grasses, and animal hair.

Eggs: 3-7, usually 3-4; 24 mm.; grayish-white in color, with brown or olive markings.

Incubation: It is thought that female incubates the eggs and both sexes care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 11-12 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 9-10 days old.


SECRETS:
Often occurs in the same fields frequented by longspurs or pipits; some pipit calls resemble the 2-note call of the Horned Lark. Horned Lark's call is best remembered by its sound: 'See-dirt' or 'tsee-ti'.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in a variety of open habitats, including tundra, short-grass prairies or pastures, grassy mountain balds, agricultural areas with limited vegetation, plowed fields, etc.

Distribution: Breeding range extends from southern Baja California, Mexico, southeastern Texas, northern Louisiana, northwestern Mississippi, northern Alabama, and South Carolina north to the Arctic coast of Canada and Alaska.  Generally winters from southern Canada south throughout the breeding range to the Gulf coast and southern Florida (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Brownish upperparts; paler below, with thick, black moustache.  Small, black 'horns' on sides of head are diagnostic; also note black breast band.  Throat color varies from yellow to white, depending on the subspecies in your area.  Tail is dark with white outer tail feathers.  It is often hard to pinpoint the precise location of the bird when it sings its twinkling, twitter-like song; song may be given while the bird is on the ground or in flight.

Nest Habits: Nests on bare ground; nest is a saucer-shaped depression built with grasses and sometimes lined with feathers, roots, plant down, and animal hair.

Eggs: 2-5, usually 3-4; 22 mm.; grayish-white or greenish-white in color, with brown markings.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and both sexes care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 11-12 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 9-12 days old.


SECRETS:
This non-native bird competes with other, native species (e.g., bluebirds, swallows, woodpeckers) for cavity nest sites. If you run a bluebird box trail, check it regularly for unwanted House Sparrows & evict House Sparrow nests when found.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Typically not found far from places of human habitation.

Distribution: This Old World species was introduced into North America in 1850, and is now established throughout most of the continent.  Resident breeding range extends from Baja California, Mexico, the Gulf coast, and southern Florida north to central and southeastern British Columbia, southwestern Mackenzie, northwestern and central Saskatchewan, northern Manitoba, central Ontario, southern Quebec, and Newfoundland (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Gray crown, black bib, and chestnut-colored nape identify the male; female is a plain brown bird with buffy-brown eyebrow; unstreaked breast in female separates it from several other similar-sized finches and sparrows.

Nest Habits: Nests in a variety of places, most commonly in a cavity in the side of a building, or under the eaves of a building; also occasionally in shrubs or trees (where it builds a dome-shaped nest) and, unfortunately, in natural tree cavities or in the cavities of nest boxes intended for other species.  Generally nests up to about 40 feet above the ground.  Nest materials include: grass, straw, feathers, string, and other materials.  Call is 'cheap', usually repeated several times in succession.

Eggs: 3-7, usually 4-6; 23 mm.; white, light blue, or light green in color, with a few brown or gray markings.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and both sexes care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 10-13 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 14-17 days old.


