Nutting's Flycatcher

The Nutting's flycatcher, a member of the tyrant flycatcher family, is a small passerine bird with a length of 18–19 cm and a weight of 21-23 g. It exhibits olive brown upper parts and a darker head adorned with a short crest. The breast is a muted gray, transitioning to a soft yellow on the belly. Notably, the brown tail feathers are tinged with rufous, and the wings are marked with rufous outer webs and two subdued wing bars. Both sexes share similar markings.

Identification Tips

To identify the Nutting's flycatcher, look for its olive brown upper parts, gray breast, and yellow belly. The rufous coloration on the tail feathers and wings, along with two dull wing bars, are key features. The bird's short crest and darker head are also distinctive. Its size and coloration may resemble other Myiarchus species, but its sharp "weeep" call is a reliable distinguishing characteristic.

Habitat

This species thrives in semi-arid desert scrub and tropical deciduous forests, where it can be observed throughout the year.

Distribution

The Nutting's flycatcher is native to western Mexico and extends its range down to northwest Costa Rica. While generally a resident bird, it has been recorded as an occasional vagrant in southern California and Arizona in the United States.

Behaviour

The Nutting's flycatcher is known for its insectivorous habits, adeptly catching flies in the undergrowth. It is also known to consume berries, indicating a degree of dietary flexibility.

Song & Calls

The call of the Nutting's flycatcher is a distinctive sharp "weeep," which serves as an important identification cue, especially when distinguishing it from similar species.

Breeding

Breeding Nutting's flycatchers construct their nests within tree cavities or comparable natural or man-made holes. A typical clutch consists of three to five eggs.

Diet and Feeding

Primarily an insectivore, the Nutting's flycatcher skillfully hunts for flies within the underbrush. It also partakes in berries, adding a frugivorous element to its diet.

Conservation status

The Nutting's flycatcher is currently classified as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List, indicating that it does not face any immediate threat of extinction.