Field Guide for all the Birds of North America
Gnatcatchers
Gobemoucherons
Polioptilidae
Information, images and range maps on over 1,000 birds of North America, including sub-species, vagrants, introduced birds and possibilities
North American Bird Search Box
There are four species of gnatcatchers found in North America and the Blue-gray Gnatcatcher is the most common. This member of the gnatcatcher family is found in approximately two-thirds of the United States and into regions of southeastern Canada.
The California Gnatcatcher can be seen in the lower half of California and into Mexico. The Black-tailed Gnatcatcher, which is quite similar to the California Gnatcatcher, can be found along all the extreme southern states adjacent to Mexico and into Mexico itself. The Black-capped Gnatcatcher has the most southern range and again is quite similar in size and looks to both, the California and Black-tailed Gnatcatchers.
The gnatcatchers behave in somewhat the same manner as warblers and can be seen flitting from leaf to leaf and hopping from branch to branch seeking insects. These small mostly gray birds are always quite active although the Blue-gray Gnatcatcher is less colourful.
Reference to Other Bird Site:
ABA - American Birding Association This site represents an organization that maintains official records of all birds species that have been proven to have been seen inside the perimeters of the North American Continent and the surrounding bodies of water. Regular revised versions are posted to keep the bird list current at all times. This is the list used by all serious birders over their lifetime. You may be aware of the movie called the "Big Year". It was with this list that all the competing birders used in an attempt to set a new record as to how many bird species that could be seen by an individual birder in one calendar year.