[EBB Sightings] Probable Gray Flycatcher in Upper Knowland Park in Oakland

Hi all;

Su Cox found this bird on the CBC last Sunday and suspected that it was a Gray Flycatcher.  I was able to go up today and find it in the same spot.  It's very cooperative, so I was able to watch it for 30 minutes and note field marks, behavior, and take photos.  The experts will decide on the ultimate ID, but it looks and acts enough like a Gray Flycatcher that I was encouraged to post it.

Here's the description: a pale gray empid with a wash of yellow on the belly; a long tail with white outer tail feathers; short primary projection; round head with a complete round white eye-ring; sallys forth from an eye-level perch onto the ground to feed; distinct and consistent tail bob when perched. You can find it on the fallen trees and the lower branches of conifers in a grassy area near the trail. 

Here's the location: Upper Knowland Park is above the Oakland Zoo, east of Highway 580.  Going east on 580, take the 106th Ave exit go left, left onto Foothill, then left onto 106th Ave.  After you go under the freeway, go right and 106th becomes Malcolm as it goes up the hill. Continue on Malcolm for about a mile and park between Lochard and Ettrick Streets.  These are short streets with little parking, but it's easy to park on Malcolm.  Walk left (north) down Ettrick and enter the park though the yellow gate; go straight on the dirt path in front of you for about 20 yards, then turn left at the T.  The bird is in the trees and fallen trees just to the north of this trail.  Su found it at 11 AM on Sunday when it was warm and sunny.  I was up there today at 3 PM after the worst of the morning cold and it was easily found.

It's best if approached by one of the neighbors to explain that you're looking for birds and nothing more.  Their houses back up to the park, and they're very aware if you're new to the area.  Folks are friendly and interested after they know that you're there for.

Good birding, and go Su for finding this great bird.

Pat Bacchetti
Oakland