Blue-gray Gnatcatcher babies in a nest. As is normal, their nest is composed of spider webs and bits of lichen and built where there is a branch right above the nest - possibly to protect from predators. These are one of the smallest birds in North America (except for Hummingbirds) and seem to have endless energy. At least when they are in the nest, they sort of hold still for a bit. They are often described as looking like tiny Mockingbirds. There are four babies in the nest and the parents seem very good about making sure that all get fed. Interesting to watch. Unlike some birds, the parents bring only one bit of food at a time, therefore feeding only one baby. Unfortunately, this nest is about 40 feet up in a tree, so the angle and light was really tough and I had to blow this up a bit. Hopefully, they will fledge soon as they are having trouble fitting into the nest any more. Taken in New Jersey, USA © Steve Byland 2008 all rights reserved Unauthorized use or reproduction for any reason is prohibited

Thia adult male Blue-Gray Gnatcatcher was feeding in a tangle along a fencerow in Harrisonburg's Hillandale Park. The birds are early spring migrants in this area and summer residents. They are probably more often seen than heard, at least among those attuned to their assortment of high-pitched buzzy notes. They often flit about near the tops of trees appearing to be severely over-caffeinated. The dark line above the eye and bright blue-gray indicates this is a male in breeding plumage. April 21, 2010, Harrisonburg, Virginia.