Phainopepla
Image: socalviolinguy (cc-by-nc)
NamePhainopepla
Common NamePhainopepla
Scientific NamePhainopepla nitens
FamilyPtilogonatidae
Wingspan (cm)29
Length (cm)18
Weight (g)22
Plumage DetailsAdult males are entirely glossy black with a prominent crest and bright red eyes. They have a conspicuous white patch on the inner primaries, visible when the wing is open. Females are duller gray overall, also with a crest and red eyes, but their wing patches are paler gray and less distinct.
Vocalization / CallTheir song is a short, warbling series of soft, rising notes, often described as 'whee-whee-whee' or 'wurp-wurp'. They also produce a sharp, whistled 'whit' or 'wurp' call.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsdesert washes, mesquite bosques, riparian woodlands, oak woodlands, chaparral
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in the southwestern United States (California, Arizona, Nevada, Utah, New Mexico, Texas) and throughout much of Mexico. Some populations are migratory, moving to coastal California in summer or further south into Mexico for winter, while others remain year-round in desert regions.
Identifying FeaturesGlossy black plumage (male), Dull gray plumage (female), Prominent crest, Red eyes, White wing patches (especially visible in flight on males), Slender body and long tail
Description
The Phainopepla is a sleek, crested bird of the arid southwestern United States and Mexico. Males are glossy black with striking white wing patches visible in flight, while females are duller gray. They are known for their acrobatic flight while catching insects and their strong association with mistletoe berries.
