Verdins of Texas

Auriparus flaviceps

Resembling a chickadee, but not closely related, Verdins are the only member of the Auriparus genus. These birds are resident in desert regions of the southwestern U.S from California to Texas, and south to central Mexico, wherever thorny scrub vegetation is present. Perhaps no other bird is more at home in harsh environments of the American desert southwest, though the Black-Tailed Gnatcatcher might qualify near the top of the list as well.

These birds build bulky nests year round, but not just for raising babies. They also use them for shelter and protection from the extreme temperatures in the deserts where they live year-round.

This gallery is restricted to images of the birds I met in Texas. I’ve had many meetings with this species in California, Arizona and Nevada. To see images from this locations, visit the <Species Gallery>.