ExploreBirds

Willow Flycatcher

Empidonax traillii

The Willow Flycatcher is a small, lively bird that loves to catch insects in the air. It has a sweet, whistling song that sounds like it's saying 'fitz-bew!' and is often found near water and willows.

Habitat: Wetlands

Appearance

The Willow Flycatcher is a small, greenish-gray bird with a pale throat and underparts, and two faint whitish wing bars. It has a subtle eye-ring. Distinguishing it from similar flycatchers often relies more on its unique call than its very plain plumage.

KingdomAnimaliaPhylumChordataClassAvesOrderPasseriformesFamilyTyrannidaeGenusEmpidonax
Willow Flycatcher
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Willow Flycatcher

Category

Birds

Rarity

Common

Danger

1/5 · Very low

Snaps

Be the first to snap!

Interesting facts

The oldest known Willow Flycatcher lived to be at least 7 years old!

Their 'fitz-bew' song is the best way to tell them apart from very similar looking birds!

This tiny bird flies thousands of miles each year during its incredible migration!

Willow Flycatchers often build their cozy nests low in willow branches near water.

Special abilities

Ability

Aerial Acrobat

Willow Flycatcher can snatch flying insects mid-air with lightning-fast dives and turns that helps them catch their meals.

Ability

Voice Code

Willow Flycatcher has a distinct 'fitz-bew' song that helps scientists and birdwatchers identify it from other similar species.

Ability

Willow Weaver

Willow Flycatcher can build sturdy, cup-shaped nests hidden deep within dense willow branches, protecting their eggs and young.

Measurements & details

Length
13-17 cm
Wingspan
20-25 cm
Weight
0.012-0.018 kg
Lifespan
3-7 years
Top Speed
35 km/h
Clutch Size
3-5
Incubation
12-14 days
Migration Distance
6000 km

Diet & Feeding

Feeds mostly on flying insects, catching them mid-air for a tasty meal.

Primary Foods

  • Flies
  • Beetles
  • Wasps
  • Moths
  • Dragonflies

Foraging Method

  • Ambush

Ecological connections

eaten by

Sharp-shinned Hawk

Accipiter striatus

A common forest hawk that preys on smaller birds, including flycatchers.

eaten by

Common Garter Snake

Thamnophis sirtalis

Snakes sometimes raid low nests for eggs and helpless nestlings.

shelters

Sandbar Willow

Salix exigua

Favors dense willow thickets near water for nesting and foraging.

eats

House Fly

Musca domestica

Consumes a variety of flying insects, including common house flies.

Traits

Also known as

No aliases listed yet.

Collections

Safety

Danger

1/5 · Very low

Enjoy watching birds from a distance and don't disturb their nests.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is Willow Flycatcher?

13-17 cm

What is Willow Flycatcher's wingspan?

20-25 cm

How much does Willow Flycatcher weigh?

0.012-0.018 kg

How long does Willow Flycatcher live?

3-7 years

How fast can Willow Flycatcher move?

35 km/h

What does Willow Flycatcher eat?

Feeds mostly on flying insects, catching them mid-air for a tasty meal.

Where is Willow Flycatcher usually found?

Wetlands

How does Willow Flycatcher hunt?

Ambush

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