Learn 100 Common Valley Birds Blog Post Species #90/100
Few things on earth fill us with as much delight as birds, and knowing them by name only adds to our pleasure. In California’s Central Valley, with only a little bit of effort, anyone can learn 100 local bird species. Especially since on a daily basis Valley Residents come in contact with at least a dozen species that most recognize, but may not know the name of. The intent of this blog is for followers to learn about and be able to identify 100 common valley birds.
A Reflections of the Natural World Blog Post Series by Jim Gain
WHAT’S IN A NAME
Phainopepla – Phainopepla nitens
Name Roots: (Gr. phainos, “shining”;p peplos, “robe” – L. nitens, “shining”)
PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS
The phainopepla is the most northerly representative of the mainly tropical Central American family Ptiliogonatidae, the silky flycatchers. Its name is from the Greek phain pepla meaning “shining robe” in reference to the male’s plumage. Unique bird of scrubby oak and mesquite habitats with a sleek body, shaggy crest, long tail, and staring red eyes. Males are shiny black with a bluish sheen; white wing patches visible in flight. Females and juveniles are ashy-gray.
DISTRIBUTION STATUS IN THE CENTRAL VALLEY
The Phainopepla is a Fairly Common Yearround Resident in California’s Central Valley and can be found in Riparian Woodland areas with lots of mistletoe.
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