ExploreBirds

Black Phoebe

Sayornis nigricans

The Black Phoebe is a small, cheerful bird with a black head and back, and a white belly. They love to catch insects in mid-air and can often be seen perched on fences or low branches.

Habitat: Urban areas, near water

Appearance

The Black Phoebe is a striking bird, almost entirely sooty black with a clean, crisp white belly and undertail coverts. Its dark head can appear slightly crested. This simple yet elegant plumage makes it easy to distinguish from other smaller, paler flycatchers.

KingdomAnimaliaPhylumChordataClassAvesOrderPasseriformesFamilyTyrannidaeGenusSayornis
Black Phoebe
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Black Phoebe

Category

Birds

Rarity

Common

Danger

1/5 · Very low

Snaps

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Interesting facts

A phoebe's 'chip' or 'fee-bee' call sounds just like its name!

Amazingly, they often return to use the same nest site each year.

Both Black Phoebe parents help feed their hungry baby birds.

They often build nests under human structures like bridges!

Special abilities

Ability

Tail Wagging Communication

Black Phoebe can constantly pump its tail up and down, a unique signal that helps them communicate their presence to others.

Ability

Aerial Insect Catcher

Black Phoebe can expertly snatch flying insects from the air, using agile flight to catch its quick-moving prey.

Ability

Mud Mason Architect

Black Phoebe has special saliva it mixes with mud to create sturdy, cup-shaped nests, protecting its eggs and young.

Measurements & details

Length
14-17 cm
Wingspan
25-28 cm
Weight
0.015-0.022 kg
Lifespan
2-8 years
Top Speed
40 km/h
Clutch Size
3-6
Incubation
15-17 days

Diet & Feeding

Black Phoebes are expert bug catchers, mostly eating flying insects they snag in mid-air.

Primary Foods

  • flies
  • beetles
  • moths
  • bees
  • small spiders

Foraging Method

  • Ambush

Ecological connections

Traits

Also known as

No aliases listed yet.

Collections

Safety

Danger

1/5 · Very low

Enjoy watching birds from a distance, and never try to touch or catch them.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is Black Phoebe?

14-17 cm

What is Black Phoebe's wingspan?

25-28 cm

How much does Black Phoebe weigh?

0.015-0.022 kg

How long does Black Phoebe live?

2-8 years

How fast can Black Phoebe move?

40 km/h

What does Black Phoebe eat?

Black Phoebes are expert bug catchers, mostly eating flying insects they snag in mid-air.

Where is Black Phoebe usually found?

Urban areas, near water

How does Black Phoebe hunt?

Ambush

Snap Map

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Where to spot

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