Black-capped Flycatcher

The Black-capped Flycatcher, scientifically known as Empidonax atriceps, is a diminutive passerine bird belonging to the Tyrant Flycatcher family. This avian species is adorned with a sooty black head and nape, while its upperparts are cloaked in an olive-brown hue. The underparts are a lighter shade of brown, transitioning to a whitish throat and a more yellowish hue on the lower belly. The bird's head is marked by a broad white eye ring, which is interrupted above the eye, and the wings and tail exhibit a blackish coloration, with the wings featuring two pale brown bars. Both sexes share a similar appearance, though juveniles can be distinguished by a browner head and less pronounced wing bars.

Identification Tips

When attempting to identify the Black-capped Flycatcher, look for its distinctive blackish head, which sets it apart from migratory Empidonax flycatchers. The bird measures approximately 11.5 cm in length and weighs around 9 grams. Its white eye ring, broken above the eye, and the two pale brown wing bars are key features to observe.

Habitat

This species favors the high canopy of mountain oak forests, but it is also known to inhabit the lower regions at forest edges, clearings, second growth, and bushy pastures.

Distribution

Endemic to the highlands of Costa Rica and western Panama, the Black-capped Flycatcher is a bird of the mountains, typically found at altitudes ranging from 2450 m to 3300 m, and occasionally as high as 4000 m. During the peak of the rainy season, it may descend to elevations as low as 1850 m.

Behaviour

The Black-capped Flycatcher exhibits a tame and active demeanor. It is often observed alone, especially outside of the breeding season. These birds are known for their short sallies from an open perch to capture insects in flight.

Song & Calls

The vocalizations of this species include a whistled "kip" call and a louder "keer keer" song, which can be heard echoing through its mountainous habitat.

Breeding

Breeding mainly occurs in the highest forested areas. The species constructs a cup-shaped nest from grass and mosses, lining it with plant fibers. This nest is either suspended from grass atop an earth bank or placed within a vertical tree fork, anywhere from 2 to 12 meters above the ground. The typical clutch consists of two unmarked cream or white eggs. The female incubates the eggs for 14–15 days until hatching, followed by a fledging period of 17 days.

Similar Species

While similar to other Empidonax flycatchers, the Black-capped Flycatcher can be easily distinguished by its darker head and overall darker plumage.

Diet and Feeding

The diet of the Black-capped Flycatcher is primarily composed of insects, which it adeptly captures in flight from an open perch.

Conservation status

The IUCN Red List has classified the Black-capped Flycatcher as Least Concern, indicating that the species currently faces no significant threats to its survival.