California Gnatcatcher
Polioptila californica
A tiny gray songbird of coastal sage scrub and arid chaparral in southern California and Baja California. It moves quickly through low shrubs, gleaning small insects and spiders from leaves and twigs. Pairs are often seen flicking their long black tails while giving thin, mewing calls. This species is strongly tied to threatened coastal sage scrub habitat, making it an important conservation indicator.
- Type
- Wing
- Conservation status
- LC
Growth chain
- California Gnatcatcher Nestling
- ?
- California Gnatcatcher