Intriguing kingbird, Cherry Creek SP (last April) (Arapahoe co)

[Ben S]

Hi all -

First I would like to apologize for not reporting my suspicions about this bird at the time. When I first saw it, I assumed it was a Western Kingbird. Then, even though I reported it as "yellow-bellied kingbird sp." on ebird, I convinced myself I was imagining its Tropical/Couch's Kingbird features. It was seen on April 30, 2019 at Cherry Creek SP, at west shades. Western Kingbirds were just returning at that time. However, several birders whose judgement I trust very much have pointed to Tropical or Couch's Kingbird as a strong possibility, or some hybrid. This bird is clearly not a Western Kingbird. First, the belly is very bright yellow, second the throat is white, the back is very green, the tail is dark with a light tip (not white edges), brownish wings with light edges as well as long primaries, and a largish bill. However, the tail is fairly thin  and dark, not lighter and deeply forked as would typically be expected from Couch's Kingbird or Tropical. Also, the bill seems larger than a Western, but I don't think it is quite as big as in a Tropical or Couch's Kingbird. In essence, the tail is like a Cassin's Kingbird, however, the rest of the bird clearly is not. It may be easier to view and zoom in on photos on my ebird checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S55598986

Again, since this bird is potentially very rare I apologize for the long period of time since the bird was seen. Any feedback is appreciated. Thanks

Ben Sampson

Centennial, CO

[The "Nunn Guy"]

Hi all

I'll just add to the discussion what I heard (quite a few times on various trips) while at Rio Grande Valley Birding Festival (November), lots of expert leaders stressing "you cannot ID Tropical or Couch Kingbirds by photo, can only do by call ... best to call the bird Tropical/Couch Kingbird." ... :-)

Thanks Gary Lefko, Nunn

http://www.friendsofthepawneegrassland.org/