ExploreBirds

Say's Phoebe

Sayornis saya

Say's Phoebe is a small, cheerful bird that loves to perch on fences and rocks. With its soft gray feathers and bright orange belly, it is a friendly sight in open areas.

Habitat: Grasslands

Appearance

The Say's Phoebe is a medium-sized flycatcher with a grayish-brown back and a distinctive rusty-cinnamon belly and flanks. It has a pale throat that contrasts with its dark head, and a dark, mostly plain tail. This combination of muted upperparts and warm underparts makes it stand out from other phoebes.

KingdomAnimaliaPhylumChordataClassAvesOrderPasseriformesFamilyTyrannidaeGenusSayornis
Say's Phoebe
feathered trait badgesocial trait badgesinging trait badgegrassland trait badge
Say's Phoebe

Category

Birds

Rarity

Common

Danger

1/5 · Very low

Snaps

25

Interesting facts

Say's Phoebes often build their nests under bridges or building eaves!

Their gentle 'phee-wee' or 'py-we' call gives them their common name.

These birds are one of the earliest migratory species to return in spring!

They are fearless, often chasing away much larger birds from their nests!

Special abilities

Ability

Aerial Acrobat

Say's Phoebe can catch flying insects mid-air because of its agile flight and keen eyesight, helping them get food.

Ability

Hovering Hunter

Say's Phoebe has the ability to hover in place, which helps them snatch insects from leaves or branches.

Ability

Tail-Wagging Radar

Say's Phoebe constantly pumps its tail up and down, a unique behavior that helps them balance and communicate.

Measurements & details

Length
17-20 cm
Wingspan
30-33 cm
Weight
0.018-0.024 kg
Lifespan
3-6 years
Top Speed
35 km/h
Clutch Size
3-7
Incubation
12-14 days
Migration Distance
4000 km

Diet & Feeding

Say's Phoebes primarily feast on flying insects, catching them expertly in mid-air.

Primary Foods

  • Flies
  • Beetles
  • Wasps
  • Grasshoppers
  • Moths
  • Ants

Foraging Method

  • Ambush

Ecological connections

Traits

Also known as

Say's Flycatcher

Collections

Safety

Danger

1/5 · Very low

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

Frequently Asked Questions

How to identify Say's Phoebe?

The easiest way to identify Say's Phoebe is to use the Snappit nature identifier app.

How long is Say's Phoebe?

17-20 cm

What is Say's Phoebe's wingspan?

30-33 cm

How much does Say's Phoebe weigh?

0.018-0.024 kg

How long does Say's Phoebe live?

3-6 years

How fast can Say's Phoebe move?

35 km/h

What does Say's Phoebe eat?

Say's Phoebes primarily feast on flying insects, catching them expertly in mid-air.

Where is Say's Phoebe usually found?

Grasslands

Snap Map

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Where to spot

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