Say's Phoebe
NameSay's Phoebe
Common NameSay's Phoebe
Scientific NameSayornis saya
FamilyTyrannidae
Wingspan (cm)29.5
Length (cm)19
Weight (g)22.5
Plumage DetailsDull gray-brown on the head, back, and wings, with a slightly darker tail. The throat and breast are pale gray, contrasting sharply with the rusty or cinnamon-colored belly and undertail coverts.
Vocalization / CallIts song is a soft, whistled 'phee-tew' or 'phee-ee-tew'. It also gives a sharp 'pip' or 'peep' call.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsdesert, grassland, urban, mountain
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds across western North America, from Alaska and western Canada south through the western United States and into Mexico. Winters in the southern parts of its breeding range and further south into Mexico.
Identifying FeaturesRusty/cinnamon belly and undertail coverts, Upright posture, Dull gray-brown upperparts, Often pumps its tail while perched, Prefers open, arid habitats
Description
The Say's Phoebe is a medium-sized flycatcher known for its upright posture and distinctive rusty belly. It typically perches conspicuously on branches or wires, sallying out to catch insects in flight.
