When the Blue-gray Gnatcatchers return to town for the summer months, and they see me outside with my camera, it always feels like they are taunting me into a game of “Catch me if you can!” Now, I typically end up on the losing end of such competitions, as they are itty-bitty-fidgety little birds that hang out in the treetops and are quick to fly away…
…to spring away…
…or to hide themselves and stay somewhat concealed behind the leaves.
BUT – this time I think I emerged as the victor! I managed to get several clear shots of this elusive beauty, which both thrilled and amazed me!
Here’s a handful I was pretty pleased with:
Can I just say, from the expression on his face, he really does seem like a sore loser.
Ah well, I’m a good sport and will give him a rematch any time he’d like!
Backyard Bird Nerd 
The first photo this tiny bird did not look happy to see you. What a magnificent frown it has. 🤭
The following photos you certainly captured their cuteness! The forth photo it thought hiding underneath the one leaf might discourage you. And your last photo certainly confirms its dismay. Yes you were certainly the winner on this day.
He really was giving me quite a glare, wasn’t he!
Oh my, but what a subtle-shaded, muted beauty, from its pert upraised tail, to those beautiful eyes and determined beak. Being a gnat-catcher, they truly must be quick and able to flit about, or the only thing they’ll end up with is some of your peanut butter, and not their first choice (smile). These are so lovely, these photographs.
Quick is an understatement with these little darters!
I’ve never even heard of these, much less seen one. Great pictures!
Thank you! They are fun to watch!
Beautiful captures of these little birds. The one where he is looking right at you is priceless! I hope they do their job of eating gnats.
I hope they eat the gnats, and the mosquitoes too!
They play that game with me too! 😁
You get it! The struggle is real!
Nice catch(es)!!
Thanks!