The Plumbeous Gnatcatcher 
while it is preeminently a bird of the mesas, it follows the foothill slopes 
up into the oak belt, where its nests receive attention from the Arizona 
Jay as well as from the Dwarf Cowbird. In the Patagonia Range I 
found an egg of the latter in a dainty nest placed eight feet up near the 
top of a scrub oak, and the outraged householder, who had evidently 
punctured the egg, mounting guard over his blighted hopes. 
The nest, according to the excellent authority of Mr. Frank C. 
Taken at "Fig-tree John's" Spring, Colorado Desert Photo by Donald R. Dickey 
PLUMBEOUS GNATCATCHER, FEMALE, AT NEST 
Willard, is placed at very moderate heights, usually about five feet, 
near the top of a bush. Both birds assist in nest building, though the 
female has the last word (as usual) as to how the furniture shall be dis¬ 
posed. The male is a cheerful, confiding soul, and during his shift at 
the brooding will allow all sorts of photographic liberties. If the eggs 
are to be inspected, only a finger will dislodge him. The female, on 
the other hand, suspects all bird-men and flees inspection, carrying 
her annoyance, it is said, to the point of desertion, if the eggs be fresh. 
The Plumbeous Gnatcatchers have no such reputation as architects 
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