Black-capped Gnatcatcher

Polioptila nigriceps

The Black-capped Gnatcatcher (Polioptila nigriceps) is a small songbird found in the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. It has a distinctive black cap on its head, with a gray body and long tail. This species is known for its active foraging behavior, often seen flitting from branch to branch in search of insects. It prefers arid and semi-arid habitats such as desert scrub, oak woodlands, and mesquite thickets. The Black-capped Gnatcatcher is a vocal bird, producing high-pitched calls and songs. Its conservation status is currently listed as Least Concern by the IUCN.

Habitat: Arid and semi-arid habitats such as desert scrub, oak woodlands, and mesquite thickets

Black-capped Gnatcatcher
© Andy Reago & Chrissy McClarren · Wikimedia Commons · CC BY 2.0