ML618947184

Age

Not specified

Sex

Not specified

Observation details

This is the first record of Gray Flycatcher (Empidonax wrightii) for North Dakota. This bird was observed on May 12, 2024, at the Big Gumbo Management Area, Bowman County by Denise Ray and me. We watched, photographed and recorded audio of it for more than 30 minutes. Time: Approximately 10:05 AM MDT. Coordinates of sighting: 46.057080,-103.973600 Details: The bird was first noticed perched on a snag at a considerable distance. It remained stationary for an extended period, which was atypical for the commonly seen Least Flycatcher (LEFL) in this region during the same period. A call distinct from local Empidonax species (LEFL, WIFL, ALFL) was heard, suggesting a different species identity, possibly a western Empidonax. Initial playback of Dusky Flycatcher (DUFL) calls yielded no response. Subsequently, playback of Gray Flycatcher calls immediately attracted the bird’s attention, causing it to fly close and engage actively with the source of the sound. The bird’s calls were recorded and have been included in the eBird Checklist S173996745 that you are currently reading. Distinctive Field Marks Observed: Outer Tail Feathers: Whitish, as noted by Sibley as a key field mark for GRFL. Head Shape: Flattened crown, consistent with GRFL characteristics. Tail Movement: The bird demonstrated a distinctive tail-pumping behavior, raising its tail quickly and letting it fall slowly. Eye-ring: Presence of a symmetrical eye-ring, more evenly-round than typically observed in other Empidonax species. Beak: Large beak with dark upper and orange lower mandible. Call: Audio recording sound and sonogram match known recordings of the species.

Technical information

Model

Canon EOS R5

ISO

1600

Flash

Flash did not fire

Dimensions

2259 pixels x 3020 pixels

Original file size

666.18 KB