Rusty-tailed Flycatcher
NameRusty-tailed Flycatcher
Common NameRusty-tailed Flycatcher
Scientific NameFicedula ruficauda
FamilyMuscicapidae
Wingspan (cm)21
Length (cm)13.5
Weight (g)12
Plumage DetailsAdults have plain greyish-brown upperparts, including the head and back, with a contrasting rusty-orange (rufous) tail. The underparts are whitish, often with a buff wash on the flanks. It has a dark eye and a small, dark bill with rictal bristles.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations include soft, high-pitched, often melancholic whistles, sometimes described as a 'tsee-tsee-tsee' or 'swee-swee-swee' sound.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest, mountain
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds in the Himalayas, from Afghanistan east through northern Pakistan, India, Nepal, and Bhutan. It migrates south for the winter, primarily to southern India and Sri Lanka.
Identifying FeaturesRusty-orange tail, Plain greyish-brown upperparts, Pale underparts, Small, dark bill with bristles, Upright flycatcher posture
Description
The Rusty-tailed Flycatcher is a small, slender passerine known for its distinctive rufous tail. It typically perches upright and sallies out to catch insects in flight. This species breeds in the Himalayas and winters in southern India and Sri Lanka.
