The Dusky-capped Flycatcher

Hiking to Mt. Wrightson is a popular hike, especially on the weekends. There are two main trails to the top; the Super Trail is long, but less steep than the Old Baldy Trail, which is half the distance. Some hikers use parts of each to reach the top to reduce steepness and length. Driving to the east side is another way to approach the top, and you are less likely to see hikers on these trails. If you have driven up to Madera Canyon and wondered why so many cars are parked between the two one-way bridges, you might be interested to know this is a hot spot for sighting many of the rarer species of birds that visit these mountains. This hot spot is only known to those serious birders who go to great lengths to see unusual birds, but feel free to stop and see what you will find. View the list »
If you are heading to Madera Canyon for birdwatching, there are plenty of areas to choose from. Whether you decided to walk the Nature Trail, or use the easy and accessible Proctor Trail down below, wildlife is everywhere here. All parking requires a five dollar permit, or you can purchase a twenty dollar yearly pass. 

Outdoor Rec & Adventure newsletter

The Dusky-capped Flycatcher is often confused with the Dusky Flycatcher since their names are so much alike, but they are different species and yet both are recorded visitors to the Santa Rita Mountains south of Tucson just outside of Green Valley.

Related topics

Advertisement

This is a small species of flycatcher, with olive to brown on the upperparts and pale gray throat and breast. The stomach is pale yellow. The wings have white and red edges while the tail is plain brown.

Despite its name, the Dusky-capped Flycatcher does not rely on insects for food. It will also eat berries and fruits. When it does choose insects, it snatches them mid-flight.

In the Santa Rita Mountains you would most likely find this species of flycatcher in the oak woodland areas in elevations of around 5000 feet. Some birds will breed here in Arizona, while others will cross down into Mexico.

Reference: The Nature of Madera Canyon by Douglas W. Moore, Friends of Madera, 1999; whatbird.com

View the list
  • If you are heading to Madera Canyon for birdwatching, there are plenty of areas to choose from. Whether you decided to walk the Nature Trail, or use the easy and accessible Proctor Trail down below, wildlife is everywhere here. All parking requires a five dollar permit, or you can purchase a twenty dollar yearly pass. 
  • If you have driven up to Madera Canyon and wondered why so many cars are parked between the two one-way bridges, you might be interested to know this is a hot spot for sighting many of the rarer species of birds that visit these mountains. This hot spot is only known to those serious birders who go to great lengths to see unusual birds, but feel free to stop and see what you will find. 
  • Hiking to Mt. Wrightson is a popular hike, especially on the weekends. There are two main trails to the top; the Super Trail is long, but less steep than the Old Baldy Trail, which is half the distance. Some hikers use parts of each to reach the top to reduce steepness and length. Driving to the east side is another way to approach the top, and you are less likely to see hikers on these trails. 
View the list

, Santa Rita Mountains Outdoor Recreation Examiner

Ms. Strader is 40-year resident of Southern Arizona. She began her Forest Service career as a fire fighter in the Santa Rita Mountains which was the beginning of her dedication to learning as much as she could about the mountains she used to protect. ...

Advertisement

Today's top buzz...