While still an
uncommon sight
in most of South Dakota, the range of the Blue-gray Gnatcatcher has been
steadily expanding throughout the 20th century. Very small birds normally
found in woodlands, they can sometimes be difficult to observe as they flit
about the tree tops.
Habitat: Varies by region, preferring
deciduous forests in the East, pine forests with a deciduous understory in the
South, and shrubby habitat in the West.
Diet: Feeds almost exclusively on insects and spiders.
Behavior: Extremely active, foraging actively
among trees and shrubs in search of insects. Will take prey while
perched, hovering, or by flycatching and catching insects in mid-air.
Nesting: May and June
Migration: Summers throughout much of the United States except
for the Pacific Northwest and the northern tier of states. Winters in the
extreme southern United States and southward.
Similar Species: Similar to the other Gnatcatchers, but these
other species (Black-tailed Gnatcatcher, California Gnatcatcher, Black-capped
Gnatcatcher) all have normal ranges well to the south of South Dakota and have
never been seen in this state.
Status: They have expanded in numbers and in range in the 20th
century, an expansion that probably is still continuing.
South Dakota "Hotspot": Most common in the extreme
southeastern part of the state, I've had very good luck finding them at both
Newton Hills State Park, and the Big Sioux Recreation Area.
2)
Cornell University's "All About Birds - Blue-gray Gnatcatcher"
3)
eNature.com:
Blue-gray Gnatcatcher
Photo Information: July 1st, 2006 - Big Sioux
Recreation Area near Brandon - Terry Sohl
Additional Photos: Click on the image chips or
text links below for additional, higher-resolution Blue-gray Gnatcatcher photos.
