Leiothlypis luciae
May 12, 2011: Zzyzx Desert Studies Center, San Bernardino County, CA
First spotted these birds in some trees on the path past the swimming pool at Zzyzx. A tiny bird: medium grey above and lighter below, with a chestnut marking on the head. My first thought was a bushtit with some regional variation. I then saw others foraging in the mesquite and realized they were some kind of warbler. My best guess was Lucy’s, but the Mojave Bird Checklist lists them as uncommon. I had the opportunity later to speak with a local naturalist, who confirmed that Zzyzx is one of the few sites where Lucy’s breed, so I was able to make the positive ID on these adorable little birds.
May 13, 2011: Zzyzx Desert Studies Center, San Bernardino County, CA
Spotted a couple in the same area, in mesquite. Behavior – perhaps begging – made me think these were parents and newly-fledged young, but I’m not certain.
Let me know what you think!