ExploreBird

Flycatcher

Tyrannus

Flycatchers are small birds known for their quick movements and aerial acrobatics. They have sharp beaks to catch flying insects mid-air.

Habitat: Forests, Wetlands

Appearance

The Flycatcher is a small to medium-sized bird, typically with a sleek body and a noticeable broad, flat bill. Many species exhibit subtle plumage in shades of grey, olive, or brown, often with lighter undersides and sometimes a prominent eye-ring. Its distinctive bill is perfectly shaped for catching insects in flight.

KingdomAnimaliaPhylumChordataClassAvesOrderPasseriformesFamilyTyrannidaeGenusTyrannus

Flycatcher

Interesting facts

A single flycatcher can gobble up hundreds of mosquitoes and flies in just one day!

Flycatcher nests are often cleverly camouflaged with moss or lichen, blending into trees!

Many species get their 'tyrant' name from their fearless defense of their nests!

Some flycatchers travel thousands of miles from North to South America every year!

Special abilities

Flycatcher can perform mid-air acrobatics to snatch flying insects because of their agile wings and precise vision.

Flycatcher has exceptionally keen eyesight that helps them spot tiny insects from a distance, even in dense foliage.

The Flycatcher has a wide, flattened bill fringed with bristles that helps them scoop up insects in flight like a net.

Measurements & details

Length: 13-23 cm
Wingspan: 25-40 cm
Weight: 0.015-0.06 kg
Lifespan: 3-7 years
Top Speed: 45 km/h
Clutch Size: 2-6
Incubation: 12-16 days
Migration Distance: 8000 km

Diet & Feeding

Tiny airborne insects are their main snack, but they sometimes eat berries too!

Primary Foods

flies
mosquitoes
beetles
grasshoppers
moths
berries

Foraging Method

Pursuit

Ecological connections

eats

House Fly

Musca domestica

Catches these common flies mid-air for food.

eaten by

American Kestrel

Falco sparverius

A small falcon that preys on flycatchers.

shelters

Red Maple

Acer rubrum

Nests and perches in the canopy of these trees.

Traits

Wildlife

Step into the incredible world of wild animals and plants living freely in nature. From tiny insects to towering trees, it's all part of the wild wonders around us!

Feathered

These are animals covered in soft, beautiful feathers that help them fly, stay warm, and even attract mates! Think of all the amazing birds you know.

Social

Discover creatures that love to live and work together! These animals form groups, helping each other find food, stay safe, and raise their young.

Aerial

Discover amazing creatures that spend much of their lives soaring high above the ground, often using wings to fly! They might hunt, travel, or even sleep up in the sky.

Insectivorous

Discover clever creatures that specialize in munching on insects, playing a super important role in keeping bug populations in check. They are nature's tiny bug vacuums!

Forest

These lush habitats are filled with countless trees, offering homes to a huge variety of plants and animals! Immerse yourself in the green canopy.

Wetland

These fascinating areas are covered by water for at least part of the year, creating a perfect home for unique plants and animals, like marshes and swamps.