We encountered 3 species of Empid today near Lovelock (NW Nevada)--"Western" Flycatcher, Gray Flycatcher and a third species (see the photos) which has us stumped. Our initial thought, based on binocular views in the field--was Willow Flycatcher--longish bill, pale below; narrow not very distinct eyering, upward tail jerks--but now that I've seen the photos, I wonder if Dusky Flycatcher in worn summer plumage isn't a possibility? Anyone have any ideas about this?
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Empid (NW Nevada): Identification (1 Viewer)
- Thread starter fugl
- Start date
Storm-Petrel
registered dude
What was the habitat? that would really help in identification. Gray flycatcher is also a possibility, but ill go with Willow Flycatcher for now
Thanks for the comments (also for yours, Microtus)
The bird was at a desert oasis with other migrants (including Gray and "Western" flycatchers), not on its breeding grounds, so habitat isn't of much use for ID purposes. We ruled out Gray Flycatcher on the basis of the tail action--upward jerks rather than the slow-motion "dips" characteristic of that species.
BirdPhotography
Guest
Dusky's my opinion.
Storm-Petrel
registered dude
I have to disagree with that- notice that dusky would have more prominent "spectacles" and a much thinner bill. I'm with Willow, gray is ruled out by the tail pumping. Dusky would be overall thinner and smaller- like a large kinglet sort of
BirdPhotography
Guest
The willow does not live in Nevada.
Microtus
Maryland USA (he/him)
I live in the east and see my share of Willow Flycatchers. While I know Willow Flys in the west could look a little different than those in the east, this bird is not saying Willow to me. The bill strikes me as too long and too dark for Willow. But, again, I'm bad at Empidonax so I could be wrong.
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