ML610401087

Age

Not specified

Sex

Not specified

Observation details

I found this bird on private land in rural Orleans, not visible from the public road, and unfortunately with no available access for birders to chase. Submitted here for the benefit of the ornithological record. It is the first time the species has been recorded in Orange County. A small, slim flycatcher, about the size and shape as an Eastern Phoebe. It was perched on an electric livestock fence surrounding short cropped grass, sometimes wagging its tail, and occasionally sallying out for flying insects. Tiny, all-black bill. Short black legs. Upperparts plain grey, including breast and wings. A little darker smudged grey around the dark eye, but this was indistinct. Greater and median coverts with lighter grey tips and slim light grey edging on these individual covert feathers. Belly and undertail coverts were a deep rosy pink. Tail solid black. Remiges very pale and in stark contrast to the black tail while the bird was in flight. We considered the similar-appearing female Vermillion Flycatcher, but our bird had no breast streaking and a plain face with no distinct mask or supercilium. Viewed from about 50-60 feet through binoculars and spotting scope. Two observers, both with experience with Say's, and we agreed on the ID. Photos

Technical information

Original file size

4.27 MB