English and Scientific names:

Gray Kingbird (Tyrannus dominicensis)

Number of individuals: 

1 age/sex unknown

Locality: LOUISIANA: 

Jefferson

Specific Locality:

Grand Isle – end of road E of Grand Isle state park

Date(s) when observed:

23 Apr 2008

Time(s) of day when observed:  

~1300

Reporting observer and address:

Erik I. Johnson, Milton, LA

Other observers accompanying reporter who also identified the bird(s):

 

Phil Stouffer

Other observers who independently identified the bird(s):

 

Light conditions (position of bird in relation to shade and to direction and amount of light):

partly sunny – mixed and varying light

Optical equipment: 

Swarovski EL 10x42

Distance to bird(s): 

15m

Duration of observation:

10 min

Habitat: 

coastal shrub

Behavior of bird: 

Flew in from gulf with flock of Eastern Kingbirds.  Perched on bare branches ~5m high occasionally switching branches and positions, but not feeding.

Description:

Large all-dark bill (larger than surrounding Eastern Kingbirds), gray back and head, white underparts.

Voice:

none

Similar species:

Grayer backed than Eastern Kingbird and Loggerhead Kingbirds, larger-billed than neighboring Eastern Kingbirds

Photographs or tape recordings obtained?

Yes

Previous experience with this species: 

seen several times the previous summer along at Lakeshore Drive in Metarie, LA

Identification aids:

Sibley Guide

This description is written from: 

notes made after the observation (date: 24 Apr 2006)

Are you positive of your identification? If not, explain: 

 

yes

Reporter: 

Erik I. Johnson

Date and time: 

24 Apr 2006