Black Phoebe

The black phoebe (Sayornis nigricans) is a medium-sized flycatcher, measuring approximately 16 cm (6.3 in) in length and weighing between 15 to 22 g (0.5 to 0.8 oz). It boasts a striking plumage, predominantly black with a contrasting white belly and undertail coverts. The white extends into an inverted "V" on the lower breast. Both sexes are identical in coloration, and the plumage does not vary with the seasons. Juvenile black phoebes can be distinguished by their browner plumage, cinnamon-brown feather tips, and brown wing-bars. This species is characterized by brown irises and black legs, feet, and beak.

Identification Tips

Observers can identify the black phoebe by its unique "tail-wagging" motion, where the tail is lowered and the feathers are fanned out. It exhibits direct flight with steady wing beats. The bird's song, a repeated tee-hee, tee-ho, is a distinctive feature and can be heard from both sexes, though it is more commonly sung by males.

Habitat

The black phoebe is invariably found near water, favoring habitats such as coastal cliffs, river and lake banks, and even park fountains. Its presence is often dictated by the availability of mud for nest building, which influences its somewhat patchy distribution.

Distribution

This species breeds from southwest Oregon and California through Central and South America. It is a year-round resident throughout most of its range, with northern populations exhibiting partial migratory behavior. Its range extends from river valleys on the Pacific coast of Oregon, across the western side of California's Coast Ranges, through the Colorado River valley, and as far southeast as the Lower Rio Grande Valley in the United States. In Central and South America, its range spans from Baja California and interior mainland Mexico to Panama, and from the coastal mountains of Venezuela to western Bolivia and northwestern Argentina.

Behaviour

The black phoebe is more sedentary compared to other phoebes in its genus. It is mainly insectivorous, employing a "wait-and-catch" technique from a perch before sallying out to capture prey mid-air. It constructs an open cup nest, often placed under a cliff or bridge, which is cemented in place with mud.

Song & Calls

The black phoebe's song consists of two alternating phrases, tee-hee and tee-ho, or sisee and sitsew. This vocalization is a common auditory backdrop in its habitat, particularly during the breeding season.

Breeding

The species makes an open cup nest, which is strategically placed under cliffs or bridges and securely cemented with mud. This nest placement provides protection from the elements and predators.

Similar Species

While the black phoebe is distinctive in its range, birdwatchers should be aware of other flycatchers with similar size and behavior. However, the black phoebe's unique plumage and tail-wagging behavior are key differentiators.

Diet and Feeding

The black phoebe is insectivorous, feeding primarily on flying insects. It adopts a perch from which it launches to catch its prey in the air, a behavior known as "sallying."

Conservation status

The black phoebe is currently listed as Least Concern by the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. It remains widespread and common within its range, with no immediate threats to its population.