ML104888701
Contributor
Date
Location
- Age and sex
- Adult Male - X
- Sounds
- Call
- Playback
- Playback not used
Media notes
Male calling when approached
Observation details
Observed just south of T-Bone Mesa along T-Bone trail. Very cool to document this species in Utah outside of the Beaver Dam Slope. One group (2 adults with 3 juveniles). First noticed the male, and as I approached the female also appeared. 3 juveniles (recently fledged) were visible nearby in a desert almond in the wash-bottom. I got great looks at both of the adults in close range for about 10 minutes. Since I did not have my camera with me at the time, I recorded the male calling as I approached (mp3 attached of two harsh call notes). I returned later with my camera and was able to relocate for photos. These were clearly black-tailed gnatcatchers. I wrote down a description of the male shortly after observing it, but I think the photos here will tell the full story (photos of the male, female, and 2 of the juveniles attached). Very surprising to find in this location (especially a family group!). However, the habitat seemed very suitable in this wide desert wash with mixed desert shrubs (including creosote). Interestingly, just earlier this year I heard of a BTGN nest just west of this location, also in the Red Cliffs Desert Reserve (personal communication with observer Seth Topham). I suppose it is possible that these are the same birds.
Technical information
- Recorder
- Microphone
- Accessories
- Original file size
- 178.88 KB