Phainopepla

Phainopepla nitens

20 cm (8") Common. Southwestern United States. Mesquite brushland, oak foothills, desert scrub, mistletoe.

Crested head. Long rounded tail. Red eye.

Male: all glossy black. In flight; white wing patch. Fluttery direct flight.

Female or Immature: all dark gray. In flight; gray wing patch. Fluttery direct flight.

Eats berries and flying insects.

Song: short soft whistle.

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Credit: Larry Bond

Distribution Maps

Phainopepla distribution map
Phainopepla distribution map
Phainopepla winter distribution map
Phainopepla winter distribution map