Black-tailed Gnatcatcher

Polioptila melanura

The Black-tailed Gnatcatcher (Polioptila melanura) is a small, active songbird found in arid and semi-arid regions of the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. This species is known for its distinctive vocalizations and agile foraging behavior as it flits through desert scrub and mesquite thickets. The Black-tailed Gnatcatcher has a striking black tail, blue-gray upperparts, and a white underbelly. It primarily feeds on insects and spiders, and constructs cup-shaped nests using spider silk and plant fibers. While not currently considered threatened, habitat loss and degradation are potential threats to this species.

Habitat: Desert scrub and mesquite thickets