This species, formerly lumped with California Gnatcatcher, is best distinguished by the tail pattern. From below, the tail appears mostly black, with white spots on the ends of the outer two sets of tail feathers. Alternate Male: Blue-gray above, with a black cap, white eye ring, mostly black tail, and whitish edges on the tertials. Underparts are grayish-white. Basic Male: Lacks black cap. Shows an indistinct black line over the eye. Female: Similar to male, but lacks black on head. Upperparts are washed brownish.

Length: 10 (cm) Wingspan: 15 (cm)

Voice:

Call is a series of high squeaky notes, followed by a harsh buzz: teet teet teet chsssh.

Habitat:

Desert thorn-scrub; prefers vegetation with thorns.

Behavior:

Like other gnatcatchers, this species often holds its tail cocked up and flips it side to side as it moves about.

Feeding:

Gleans insects from foliage.