Grey Kingbird

The Gray Kingbird, known scientifically as Tyrannus dominicensis, is a passerine bird belonging to the tyrant flycatchers family, Tyrannidae. This species, also referred to by local names such as pitirre, petchary, or white-breasted kingbird, was first described on the island of Hispaniola. It is an average-sized kingbird, with a length of 23 cm (9.1 in) and a weight ranging from 37 to 52 g (1.3 to 1.8 oz). The bird's plumage is predominantly gray with brownish wings and tail, while the underparts are white with a subtle gray tinge on the chest. A concealed yellow crown stripe adorns the head, along with a dusky mask through the eyes. The bill is dark and robust, distinguishing it from the slightly smaller tropical kingbird.

Identification Tips

When identifying the Gray Kingbird, look for its gray upperparts and white underparts with a grayish chest. The head features a hidden yellow crown stripe and a dusky eye mask. The bill is notably heavier than that of the tropical kingbird. Both sexes appear similar, but juveniles can be recognized by the rufous edges on their wing coverts, rump, and tail.

Habitat

The Gray Kingbird is often found perched in tall trees and shrubs, favoring the edges of savannas and marshes. It has shown a preference for coastal areas but can also be found inland.

Distribution

This bird breeds in the southeastern United States, primarily in Florida, extending through Central America and the West Indies down to Venezuela, Trinidad and Tobago, the Guianas, and Colombia. Northern populations are migratory, spending winters along the Caribbean coast of Central America and northern South America. Vagrant populations have been noted in the northeastern United States.

Behaviour

The Gray Kingbird is known for its territorial nature, defending its space with vigor against intruders, including mammals and larger birds such as crested caracaras and various hawks. It exhibits typical kingbird behavior, engaging in mobbing tactics to protect its area.

Song & Calls

The bird's call is a distinctive, loud rolling trill, often transcribed as "pipiri, pipiri," which has inspired many of its onomatopoeic local names.

Breeding

Nesting occurs in trees where the Gray Kingbird constructs a flimsy cup nest. The female incubates a clutch of two cream-colored eggs, adorned with reddish-brown markings.

Diet and Feeding

The Gray Kingbird primarily feeds on insects, including bees, dragonflies, wasps, and beetles. It hunts from an exposed perch, sallying forth to capture its prey. Additionally, it consumes small fruits, berries, spiders, and occasionally small lizards, with fruits and berries comprising about one-fifth of its diet.

Conservation status

The Gray Kingbird is currently listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List, indicating that it does not face any immediate threat of extinction.