Brown-crested Flycatcher
NameBrown-crested Flycatcher
Common NameBrown-crested Flycatcher
Scientific NameMyiarchus tyrannulus
FamilyTyrannidae
Wingspan (cm)31.5
Length (cm)21
Weight (g)34
Plumage DetailsUpperparts are olive-brown, with a grayish-white throat and breast contrasting sharply with a bright yellow belly and undertail coverts. The wings show two faint pale wing bars, and rufous (rusty) coloration is often visible on the inner webs of the flight feathers and tail, though it can be subtle. It has a distinctive, often raised, brown crest.
Vocalization / CallIts most characteristic vocalization is a loud, often repeated, 'whit-WHEER!' or 'wheep!' call. It also produces a series of rolling 'prrrrt' notes.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds from the southwestern United States (Arizona, New Mexico, Texas) south through Mexico, Central America, and extensively into South America, reaching as far south as central Argentina. Northern populations are migratory, wintering in Mexico and Central America.
Identifying FeaturesNoticeable, often shaggy, brown crest, Olive-brown upperparts with grayish throat and bright yellow belly, Rufous flashes in wings and tail (subtle but present), Large, dark bill, Distinctive 'whit-WHEER!' call
Description
The Brown-crested Flycatcher is a medium-sized tyrant flycatcher characterized by its olive-brown upperparts, grayish throat, and bright yellow belly. It often displays a noticeable, somewhat shaggy crest and is known for its active foraging, sallying from perches to catch insects.
