Yellow-bellied Gerygone

An active, unstreaked warbler with a long graduated tail that is sometimes cocked. It is yellowish below with a distinct white throat. When breeding it has a broad dark chest band (narrower in the female) that is reduced or absent in northern populations. Pairs inhabit arid savanna, shrubland, and gardens, where they glean small insects from leaves. The species’ typical song is a dry harsh “dziiip” note repeated 10-30 times in rapid succession. The similar Tawny-flanked Prinia may resemble non-breeding Black-chested Prinia, but Tawny-flanked can be identified by the rusty wings and lack of yellowish underparts.

Large turkeylike bird found in extensive areas of sagebrush. Both sexes gray overall with very fine patterning, black belly, and long pointed tail. Males have a white breast and a black throat. Spectacular male display involves fanning tail, inflating yellow air sacs on chest, and thrusting them forward to produce liquidy popping noises. Extremely similar to more widespread Greater Sage-Grouse but smaller and no range overlap. Also note lighter tail and longer head plumes on Gunnison when displaying. Most easily seen at display sites in early spring; can be very inconspicuous at other times of year. Tends to forage in wet riparian areas near sagebrush. Population in decline.

Males suffused with raspberry red, especially on head and breast. Compared to House Finch, males lack distinct streaks on sides and are overall more colorful, especially on back and wings. Females and first-year males have contrasty head pattern with pale eyebrow and darker cheek; also note well-defined streaks on sides. Breed in coniferous or mixed forests. Winters in a wider variety of habitats with trees. Visits feeders.