Gray Kingbirds

The first time I heard the sweet thrill of the Gray Kingbird *, I knew immediately that it was a new visitor to my garden.  The sound filled the air completely.
In looking to see where the distinctive, high pitched, melodic sound was coming from, I saw a pretty little grey bird sitting on top of the gazebo.

I learned of its identification later from a FB friend in my Caribbean Gardeners Forum.

Gray Kingbird (Tyrannus dominicensis)

The Gray Kingbird is a mid-sized tyrant flycatcher with grey upper parts and white under parts, with a long black bill and dark brownish wings and notched tail. It is also known as a Pitirre.
However, in Barbados, we refer to it as a Pee Whittler.

Swinging on a Golden Palm frond......

....with not a care in the world, because he has spotted his lunchtime menu.

Their diet is made up of mostly insects, lizards, berries, fruits and seeds.

He loves the red seeds on the MacArthur palms, however he has to share with Mr.Scaly-Naped Pigeon.

They are noted for being aggressive towards mammals and other birds, especially during their breeding season, when they defend their nests.

They love to perch on power lines and nest near street lights, making it easy to access the tons of  insects that frequent the lights at night.

Gray Kingbird nest on street light pole

As I write this, the garden is filled with their chorus of sound. Almost like an orchestra playing a lovely piece of classical music.
Today is Thanksgiving Day in the US, and today I am truly thankful that I have these birds in my garden.

Happy Happy Thanksgiving to all my friends and family who are celebrating today...have a wonderful day!!


(*) In referencing these birds, I noted that Gray and Grey are interchanged for its name, however, they are listed in Wikipedia as Gray Kingbirds.
Here is an interesting fact...did you know that a group of Kingbirds are collectively known as a "coronation", a "court", or a "tyranny" of Kingbirds?  Sounds appropriate don't you think?