WESTERN KINGBIRD

(Tyrannus verticalis)

eBird gives this description for the Western Kingbird:  Fairly large flycatcher, barely smaller than a robin. Favors open habitats with tall shrubs and trees. Usually seen on an obvious perch. Most similar to Cassin’s Kingbird, with a gray head and yellow belly. Cassin’s is not as widespread. Western is separated by paler gray head that fades to whiter throat and breast. Also note black tail with white edges (white stripe along vertical edge of outer tail feathers).  All About Birds provides the following descriptive information:  An eye-catching bird with ashy gray and lemon-yellow plumage, the Western Kingbird is a familiar summertime sight in open habitats across western North America. This large flycatcher sallies out to capture flying insects from conspicuous perches on trees or utility lines, flashing a black tail with white edges. Western Kingbirds are aggressive and will scold and chase intruders (including Red-tailed Hawks and American Kestrels) with a snapping bill and flared crimson feathers they normally keep hidden under their gray crowns.

I saw my first Western Kingbirds at Crescent Bend Nature Park on the morning of July 20, 2020.  I saw a single bird near the old growth area, and later saw two more out in the northern, more open part of the park.  I was delighted to see these beautiful birds!