Vermilion Flycatcher

The Vermilion Flycatcher, Pyrocephalus obscurus, is a small, vibrantly colored bird belonging to the Tyrannidae family. Males are adorned with a brilliant vermilion red on their crowns, chests, and underparts, contrasted by brownish wings and tails. Females, however, are more subdued in color, lacking the striking red and instead presenting with a peach-colored belly and a dark gray upperside.

Identification Tips

Males of this species are unmistakable with their fiery red plumage. Females and juveniles may be confused with other species such as the Say's Phoebe, but can be distinguished by their overall coloration and subtle field marks.

Habitat

Vermilion Flycatchers favor semi-open environments and are often found in riparian woodlands, savannas, and scrublands, typically near water sources.

Distribution

This species has a broad range that spans from the southern parts of North America through Central America and into South America. They are resident birds in many areas, but some populations may migrate seasonally.

Behaviour

These birds are primarily solitary, engaging in aerial displays and territorial defense. They are known for their perching behavior, often seen on exposed branches or twigs.

Song & Calls

The male's song is a distinctive "pit pit pit pidddrrrreeedrr," which plays a crucial role in territory establishment. Calls vary from sharp "pees" to aggressive "peent" sounds.

Breeding

Vermilion Flycatchers are socially monogamous but may engage in extra-pair copulations. They exhibit intra-specific brood parasitism, with females laying eggs in the nests of others. Nesting occurs in shallow open cups, with two to three brown-speckled whitish eggs per clutch. Both parents participate in feeding the chicks, which fledge after about 15 days.

Similar Species

The female Vermilion Flycatcher may be confused with the Say's Phoebe due to their similar size and more muted coloration.

Diet and Feeding

As aerial insectivores, Vermilion Flycatchers capture their prey in flight. Their diet consists mainly of insects such as flies, grasshoppers, and beetles.

Conservation status

The species is currently listed as Least Concern by the IUCN, with a large and widespread population. However, habitat loss has led to a decline in numbers in some areas.