Date: 11/19/24 6:27 pm From: Kent Forward via groups.io <kforward...> Subject: [pen-bird] Gray Flycatcher continuing in Montara 11/19/24
Good evening birders,
I was able to re-find the continuing Gray Flycatcher in Montara today around 3PM or so. Unlike when I first found it on 11/11 I was finally able to carefully observe the unique tail dipping behavior unique to Gray Flycatchers and was able to get a video of the behavior (in my eBird checklist). Thanks to Marty for re-finding it on 11/16 which inspired me to return and see if it was still there and attempt to get a video!
https://ebird.org/checklist/S203052308 The following details below are in my eBird checklist, but just copying/pasting here for those not familiar with the area, hopefully it'll stick around for a while longer!
I added GPS (below) of where the bird was seen today, and also a good parking area to access the spot (a small dirt pullout with enough room for 3 cars or so at the entrance to Rancho Corral de Tierra in the Montara area). Once parked, as you enter the trail it immediately forks, take the right fork (east) and hike up the gently ascending trail towards the elevated school yard/fence with eucalyptus trees in the distance. Look on both sides of the trail as you walk up towards the school in the open scrubby areas, especially as you get closer to the school, it really seems to prefer that area. Look for it on low brush in the open areas, and it occasionally drops to the ground. I didn't see it my first 15 minutes there today, but finally saw it and got a video of its classic tail dipping behavior, unique to Gray Flycatchers. Then I lost it, and wasn't able to re-find for close to an hour afterwards before it became too dark and cold to stick around (for me and the Flycatcher apparently!)
Bird seen today at: 37.544449, -122.510356Parking: 37.545070, -122.511675
