Not sure what this gray bird is. (1 Viewer)

Phil Juvet

Well-known member

• Apr 23, 2004

• #1

My bird guide is of no help here. I am leaning towards Swallow or Cowbird.
He showed up this week alone. He is smaller than the Red Breasted Robins,
Northern Flickers, Steller's Jays Mourning Doves, and Acorn Woodpeckers that hang out in my yard. He eats the seeds that have fallen on the porch. Take a look and see what you think.

 

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robinm

Registered User

• Apr 23, 2004

• #2

Hi Phil,

May I wish you a warm welcome from all the Staff and Moderators here at Birdforum. I hope you stay and take a look round.

I am afraid I can't help with the id (not a swallow I think) but I am sure someone will be along soon who can.

 

cuckooroller

Registered User

• Apr 23, 2004

• #3

Hi Phil,
Where in California? If you give me a location I can probably work out the subspecies. In any case, Pipilo crissalis (California Towhee).

 

Phil Juvet

Well-known member

• Apr 23, 2004

• #4

cuckooroller said:

Hi Phil,
Where in California? If you give me a location I can probably work out the subspecies. In any case, Pipilo crissalis (California Towhee).

Click to expand...

I am in Grass Valley, California which is in Northern California on the western
slope of the Sierras at 2500' asl. About an hour from Sacramento. Pines and Oaks in my yard. I have a couple of more photos if needed. Thanks.

 

Warbler

Warbler Watcher

• Apr 23, 2004

• #5

Yes, it is a California Towhee. Here's a link that has some info. about them.

http://www.birds.cornell.edu/bow/caltow

 

cuckooroller

Registered User

• Apr 23, 2004

• #6

Phil Juvet said:

I am in Grass Valley, California which is in Northern California on the western
slope of the Sierras at 2500' asl. About an hour from Sacramento. Pines and Oaks in my yard. I have a couple of more photos if needed. Thanks.

Click to expand...

Phil,
I know where you are now. I went to school in Davis. You're on the I-80 going towards Reno. OK. The subspecies should be that one listed as ranging in Interior California, i.e., Pipilo crissalis carolae. I figured you were up north somewhere when you talked about Steller Jays. Nice zone.

:bounce: