Swainson's Flycatcher
NameSwainson's Flycatcher
Common NameSwainson's Flycatcher
Scientific NameMyiarchus swainsoni
FamilyTyrannidae
Wingspan (cm)26.5
Length (cm)19
Weight (g)30
Plumage DetailsUpperparts are olive-brown, with a grayish head that often shows a slight crest. The throat and breast are pale gray, transitioning to a distinct yellowish wash on the belly and undertail coverts. Wings are brownish with two faint whitish wing bars.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a series of whistles, often a rising 'wee-eep' or a more complex 'whit-wheer-wheer' call. They also produce a distinctive 'wheep' note.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds in southern South America (Argentina, Uruguay, Paraguay, southern Brazil, Bolivia) and migrates north to northern South America (e.g., Amazon basin, Colombia, Venezuela) during the austral winter.
Identifying FeaturesOlive-brown upperparts, Yellowish belly, Grayish head with slight crest, Two faint wing bars, Typical flycatcher posture
Description
This medium-sized flycatcher is characterized by its olive-brown upperparts, grayish head, and prominent yellowish belly. It is an active insectivore, often observed perching upright and sallying out to catch insects in flight within forest edges and clearings.
