ExploreBirds

Gray Kingbird

Tyrannus dominicensis

The Gray Kingbird is a cheerful bird with a gray body and a black cap on its head. It loves to catch insects in mid-air and can often be seen perched on a branch, waiting for its next meal.

Habitat: Coastal areas

Appearance

The Gray Kingbird has a pale gray head and back, with a distinctive dark mask through its eyes. Its underside is whitish, and it sports a heavy, dark bill and a slightly notched tail, making it look sleek.

KingdomAnimaliaPhylumChordataClassAvesOrderPasseriformesFamilyTyrannidaeGenusTyrannus
Gray Kingbird
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Gray Kingbird

Category

Birds

Rarity

Common

Danger

1/5 · Very low

Snaps

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Interesting facts

During migration, these birds can cross large stretches of ocean without stopping!

Gray Kingbirds often build their cup-shaped nests near water, sometimes even over it!

Its scientific name, 'Tyrannus dominicensis', means 'tyrant' due to its bold nature!

They have a loud, distinctive 'pee-cheer-weee' call that carries surprisingly far!

Special abilities

Ability

Hawkeye Hunter

Gray Kingbird can spot tiny insects from a high perch because of its excellent eyesight, helping it catch food.

Ability

Tyrant Territory

Gray Kingbird can fiercely chase off much larger birds, like hawks, because it's a brave defender of its nest.

Ability

Aerial Acrobat

Gray Kingbird can quickly dart and hover mid-air, allowing it to snatch flying insects with amazing precision.

Measurements & details

Length
20-24 cm
Wingspan
38-42 cm
Weight
0.035-0.05 kg
Lifespan
4-8 years
Top Speed
45 km/h
Clutch Size
2-5
Incubation
14-16 days
Migration Distance
2000 km

Diet & Feeding

Feasts on flying insects caught mid-air, but also enjoys berries and small fruits!

Primary Foods

  • Dragonflies
  • Bees
  • Wasps
  • Beetles
  • Grasshoppers
  • Berries

Foraging Method

  • Ambush

Ecological connections

eats

Green Darner

Anax junius

Kingbirds often catch these large dragonflies mid-flight.

eats

European Honey Bee

Apis mellifera

A common insect prey for kingbirds, snatched from the air.

eats

Strangler Fig

Ficus aurea

Kingbirds also enjoy the small, sweet fruits of this tree.

eaten by

Red-tailed Hawk

Buteo jamaicensis

A larger raptor that may prey on adult kingbirds or their young.

shelters

Red Mangrove

Rhizophora mangle

Nests are frequently built in the protective branches of mangroves.

Traits

Also known as

No aliases listed yet.

Collections

Safety

Danger

1/5 · Very low

Enjoy watching birds from a distance and don't try to touch them.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is Gray Kingbird?

20-24 cm

What is Gray Kingbird's wingspan?

38-42 cm

How much does Gray Kingbird weigh?

0.035-0.05 kg

How long does Gray Kingbird live?

4-8 years

How fast can Gray Kingbird move?

45 km/h

What does Gray Kingbird eat?

Feasts on flying insects caught mid-air, but also enjoys berries and small fruits!

Where is Gray Kingbird usually found?

Coastal areas

How does Gray Kingbird hunt?

Ambush

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