Phainopepla
The Phainopepla is the northernmost of a group of tropical birds that feed on mistletoe. In the Southwest the berries are seasonal, so it supplements them with insects, which it takes from the air in long sallies, like a typical flycatcher. The Phainopepla has a unique relationship with its main food source, mistletoe berries. Mistletoe berries are dependent on the bird to plant them on the branch of a tree. It does this by eating the berry and digesting the seeds, yet not harming them. The bird's droppings, which contain the seeds, will hit a branch and then the seed will start to germinate. When there is an abundance of mistletoe berries, Phainopeplas will congregate in the hundreds; otherwise, they are hard to find.

On average, the Phainopepla reaches a length of 7-7 3/4 inches. Their bills are short and thin. They have have a dark crest with the males having an entirely black plumage, while the females have a grey plumage. During flight, white wing patches are visible. They have a very long tail and the juveniles look very similiar to that of the female. Common calls of the the Phainopepla include an up-slurred whistled hoooeet and a low quirk. Their short warbled song is rarely heard.

Phainopeplas can be found in central California, southern Nevada, southern Utah, southern New Mexico and western Texas south to Baja and into Mexico. It winters in southern California, southern Nevada, central Arizona, southern New Mexico and southern Texas. The Phainopepla is found throughout desert ecosystems. They are primarily found in washes, riparian areas, and other habitats that support arid scrubs. If they are found near coastal areas, they prefer oak chaperral and riparian oak woodlands.
Phainopepla Range Map

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