Phainopepla (Phainopepla nitens) is in the Silky-flycatchers family (Ptiliogonatidae). Across the U.S., iNaturalist users have logged 17,193 research-grade observations of it in our sample, peaking in March.
Seasonal pattern in the national data: seasonal. Counts also reflect when people are out photographing, so compare months within a state rather than across states.
When to photograph Phainopepla: observations by month (U.S.)
About Phainopepla
The phainopepla or northern phainopepla (Phainopepla nitens) is the most northerly representative of the mainly tropical Central American family Ptiliogonatidae, the silky flycatchers. Its name is from the Greek phain pepla meaning "shining robe" in reference to the male's plumage.From Wikipedia via iNaturalist — article, CC BY-SA.
Phainopepla by state
| State | Observations | Peak month | Main season |
|---|---|---|---|
| California | 9,231 | March | Oct–Jun |
| Arizona | 5,594 | March | Nov–May |
| Nevada | 1,397 | March | Sep–May |
| Texas | 471 | December | Nov–Sep |
| New Mexico | 360 | May | Nov–Aug |
| Utah | 119 | April | Mar–May |
| Minnesota | 9 | October | Oct–Oct |
Main season = months with at least 30% of the state's peak-month count.
Photography tips
- Use a fast shutter (1/2000 s or faster) for birds in flight.
- Focus on the eye and shoot at the bird's eye level.
- Approach slowly and stop if the bird changes behavior; never bait or flush birds.
- Morning activity peaks in the first two hours after sunrise.
FAQ
When is the best time to photograph Phainopepla?
Nationally, March has the most observations, with the main season from October to June.
Where is Phainopepla most often seen?
The most observations come from California, Arizona, Nevada.