Tropical Kingbird
NameTropical Kingbird
Common NameTropical Kingbird
Scientific NameTyrannus melancholicus
FamilyTyrannidae
Wingspan (cm)35.5
Length (cm)22
Weight (g)42
Plumage DetailsAdults have a gray head with a faint darker eye-mask, a white throat, and an olive-green back and wings. The underparts are a vibrant yellow, extending from the breast to the undertail coverts. The tail is dusky and slightly forked.
Vocalization / CallIts call is a distinctive, high-pitched, often rapid and chattering series of notes, frequently described as 'pip-pip-pip' or 'kip-kip-kip', sometimes escalating into a 'tree-tree-tree-tree-tree' or 'chi-weer'.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, grassland, urban, coastal
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound from the southwestern United States (southern Arizona, southern Texas) through Mexico and Central America, and widely across South America down to central Argentina.
Identifying FeaturesGray head with dark eye-mask, Bright yellow underparts, Olive-green back, Slightly forked dusky tail, Aggressive flycatching behavior, Distinctive chattering calls
Description
The Tropical Kingbird is a medium-sized flycatcher characterized by its gray head, olive-green back, and striking bright yellow underparts. It is an active and often aggressive bird, known for its aerial insect-catching abilities and territorial defense.
