Boat-billed Flycatcher

The Boat-billed Flycatcher, Megarynchus pitangua, is a passerine bird of notable size within the tyrant flycatcher family. Adults measure approximately 23 cm (9.1 in) in length and weigh around 70 g (2.5 oz). They exhibit a striking black head with a bold white eyestripe and a hidden yellow crown stripe. The upperparts are olive-brown, while the wings and tail are brown with subtle rufous fringes. The underparts are a vibrant yellow, and the throat is white. The species is named for its distinctive large black bill.

Identification Tips

To identify the Boat-billed Flycatcher, look for its massive black bill, which is a key distinguishing feature. This bird also has a strong white eyestripe and a concealed yellow crown stripe. The olive-brown upperparts set it apart from the similar Great Kiskadee, which has more rufous in the tail and wings and lacks the olive tone.

Habitat

This species breeds in open woodlands that feature some tall trees, providing a suitable environment for nesting and foraging.

Distribution

The Boat-billed Flycatcher can be found from Mexico, extending south through Central America to Bolivia and Argentina, and across to Trinidad.

Behaviour

The female Boat-billed Flycatcher constructs an open saucer-shaped nest of sticks. The typical clutch consists of two or three whitish eggs, heavily blotched with brown. Incubation, mostly undertaken by the female, lasts for 17–18 days, followed by a fledging period of 24 days.

Song & Calls

The call of the Boat-billed Flycatcher is a distinctive and strident trilled "nya, nya, nya," which can be heard echoing through its habitat.

Diet and Feeding

Boat-billed Flycatchers are primarily insectivorous, waiting on concealed perches high in trees to sally forth and catch insects in flight, such as cicadas. They also glean invertebrates from foliage and consume a variety of berries, small wild figs, and dry green fruits from plants like Cissus, Miconia, and Cecropia.

Conservation status

The Boat-billed Flycatcher is currently listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List, indicating that, at present, there are no immediate threats to its population numbers that would warrant a higher level of concern.