Blue-gray Gnatcatcher – 5/1/18

Observer: Paul Lauenstein

Contact Information:  lauenstein@comcast.net   (781) 784-2986

Observation Date: 5/1/18 at 8:15 a.m.

Observation Location: Moose Hill Audubon Wildlife Sanctuary

Common Name: Blue-gray gnatcatcher

Scientific Name: Polioptila caerulea

Comments: A tiny, long-tailed bird of broadleaf forests and scrublands, the Blue-gray Gnatcatcher makes itself known by its soft but insistent calls and its constant motion. It hops and sidles in dense outer foliage, foraging for insects and spiders. As it moves, this steely blue-gray bird conspicuously flicks its white-edged tail from side to side, scaring up insects and chasing after them. Pairs use spiderweb and lichens to build small, neat nests, which sit on top of branches and look like tree knots.

More Information: All About Birds