This is the common yellow-bellied kingbird across much of the Western U.S. The black tail with white outer edges is distinctive. Plain brownish-black wings contrast with the light olive-gray back. The head is pale gray, with an indistinct darker mask running from the bill through the eye. The throat is whitish, darkening to pale gray on the breast and transitioning to yellow on the belly and vent. The bill is fairly small. Recently-fledged juveniles are smaller than adults. They have shorter tails and bills, but are similar in plumage. A good online comparison of Western, Couch's, and Tropical Kingbird specimens can be found at this link: A good online comparison of museum specimens can be found at this link: http://birds.cornell.edu/crows/kingbirdsX.htm

Length: 20 (cm) Wingspan: 38 (cm)

Voice:

Call consists of single or repeated sharp kip notes. Song is a series of single kips and sputtering trills.

Habitat:

Uses a variety of open habitats with scattered trees or man-made structures for perching.

Behavior:

Commonly perches on fencelines and utility lines. Often builds its nest on electrical pole transformers.

Feeding:

Flycatches. Also captures insects from foliage and the ground. Eats some fruit in winter.