Phainopepla

The Phainopepla, scientific name Phainopepla nitens, is a passerine bird found in the southwestern United States and Mexico. It is the only species in the genus Phainopepla. This striking bird is characterized by its glossy black plumage and a prominent crest. Males are entirely black, while females have a grayish-brown coloration. Both sexes have distinctive red eyes.

Phainopeplas are primarily insectivores, feeding on flying insects and occasionally berries. They are known for their acrobatic aerial maneuvers when hunting insects. Their diet can shift seasonally, with mistletoe berries becoming a significant food source during certain times of the year, particularly in winter.

These birds are often found in arid and semi-arid regions, inhabiting deserts, scrublands, and riparian areas with mesquite and palo verde trees. They are migratory, with populations in the northern parts of their range moving south for the winter. Breeding typically occurs in spring and summer. The nest is a cup-shaped structure made of twigs and plant fibers, often placed in trees.

Phainopeplas are known for their unique behavior of "sunbathing," where they orient themselves towards the sun with their wings spread, likely to absorb heat. They are also known for their distinctive, high-pitched calls. Their presence is often associated with areas rich in mistletoe, as they are important dispersers of mistletoe seeds.