Family: Tyrannidae, Tyrant Flycatchers view all from this family

Description 5 1/2" (14 cm). Similar to other Empidonax flycatchers, but gray above, white below. Lower mandible flesh-colored. Eye ring not prominent. Slowly bobs its tail.

Habitat Sagebrush and pinyon-juniper woodlands.

Nesting 3 or 4 white eggs in a grass-woven cup nest placed low in sagebrush or a small tree.

Range Breeds from southern Washington and southwestern Wyoming south to eastern California, central Arizona, and central New Mexico. Winters in southern California and southern Arizona.

Voice   Song is in 2 parts, rising in tone: chiwip (or chi-bit) cheep. Call is a soft whit.

Discussion This flycatcher lacks the olive and yellow tinges on the back and underparts that mark the other Empidonax flycatchers. Its color blends with the blue-gray hues of sagebrush and helps conceal it from predators.