Black Phoebe
NameBlack Phoebe
Common NameBlack Phoebe
Scientific NameSayornis nigricans
FamilyTyrannidae
Wingspan (cm)25
Length (cm)16
Weight (g)17
Plumage DetailsAdults have a sooty black head, back, wings, and tail, sharply contrasting with a clean white belly and undertail coverts. The bill and legs are black. Juveniles are similar but may show rusty edgings on their wing feathers.
Vocalization / CallIts song is a distinctive, repetitive, high-pitched 'tsee-tsee-tsip' or 'tsee-o-tsee', often described as a clear, whistled 'chip' or 'tsee'. It also gives a sharp 'chip' call.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsurban, coastal, wetland, forest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in western North America, ranging from southwestern Oregon and California, south through Mexico and Central America, and into parts of South America.
Identifying Featuressooty black upperparts, white belly, tail wagging behavior, perches near water, flycatching behavior
Description
The Black Phoebe is a medium-sized flycatcher known for its striking dark plumage contrasted by a white belly. It frequently perches near water, sallying out to catch insects in flight and constantly wagging its tail up and down. This species is often found in riparian areas and near human habitation.
