3 replies to this topic

[Bill1969]

I took this shot today at Sierra National Forest, CA, it looks like Willow Flycatcher, but just want to make sure..

http://bilalphotos.com/_MG_4783.JPG

Thanks

[TheBillyPilgrim]

Did you hear it calling? Without a view of the primaries, I'm not sure this bird can be narrowed down past the Empidonax genus.

[Liam]

The most common Empids in your area during this time of year are: Pacific-slope, Willow, Hammond's and Dusky.

Head shape is wrong for Pacific-slope, The bill looks a bit small for Willow and the belly too yellow. Hammond's and Dusky are extremely similar, though there are a few differences. I don't have any experience between the two species, but Sibley's shows Dusky paler than Hammond's and the tail longer and squared (as opposed to notched). Also Dusky has shorter primary projection than Hammond's. Personally, I'm leaning towards Dusky over Hammond's, based on the tail, but a picture of the primary projection would help if you have one.

[Bill1969]

Thanks