Western Wood-Pewee

Contopus sordidulus

The spring and fall records (three total, all from St. Paul Island) for this species fall within expected migratory periods for this species, though its relative scarcity in adjacent areas of Alaska makes this species an unlikely vagrant to the Pribilofs. Late August and early September appear to be the best time to look for similar species and as such this is likely the best period with which to expect this species in the future.

The three records clearly refer to a Wood-Pewee (Contopus sp.) and the specific identification is supported, though given the difficulty in identification it cannot be unequivocally proven.

Photo by Gavin Bieber
Photo by Alex Harper