Variegated Flycatcher
NameVariegated Flycatcher
Common NameVariegated Flycatcher
Scientific NameEmpidonomus varius
FamilyTyrannidae
Wingspan (cm)26.5
Length (cm)18
Weight (g)24
Plumage DetailsUpperparts are brownish-olive with darker streaks. Underparts are whitish with heavy dark streaking on the breast and flanks. It features a prominent dark eye-stripe contrasting with a whitish supercilium. The crown is dark, often with a concealed yellow patch, and the tail is rufous-brown, particularly on the outer webs.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include sharp, emphatic 'chip' or 'pip' notes, often accelerating into a trill or a more complex, chattering song. It can also give a sharp 'peet' or 'twee-twee-twee' call.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest, grassland, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds in southern South America (Argentina, Uruguay, Paraguay, southern Brazil, Bolivia) and migrates north to northern South America and Central America during the austral winter. Some populations are resident.
Identifying FeaturesProminent dark eye-stripe with whitish supercilium, Heavily streaked underparts, Rufous tail, Dark crown with concealed yellow patch (often not visible), Upright flycatcher posture
Description
The Variegated Flycatcher is a medium-sized tyrant flycatcher characterized by its streaked plumage and prominent dark eye-stripe. It is an active insectivore, often seen perching conspicuously on wires or branches, sallying out to catch insects in flight.
