Dark-sided Flycatcher

The dark-sided flycatcher, known scientifically as Muscicapa sibirica, is a diminutive passerine that graces the Old World flycatcher family, Muscicapidae. This bird, also referred to as the Siberian flycatcher, boasts a modest length of 13 to 14 centimeters, cloaked in plain, dark grey-brown upperparts, save for a pale wingbar and similarly hued edging on the tertial feathers. Its breast and flanks are adorned with streaky dark grey-brown, while a pale submoustachial stripe and a dark malar stripe frame the white throat and half-collar. The belly's center is white, contrasting with white undertail-coverts that feature dark centers. A short, dark bill, black feet, and a large eye encircled by a whitish ring complete its visage. Both sexes share this appearance, though juveniles can be distinguished by pale spots on the upperparts, a mottled breast, and buff tips on the wing-coverts.

Identification Tips

When distinguishing the dark-sided flycatcher from its congeners, note the longer primary projection of its wings compared to the Asian brown flycatcher, and the variable amount of streaky dark grey-brown on the breast and flanks, setting it apart from the grey-streaked flycatcher, which is white below with distinct grey streaks.

Habitat

This species is found in coniferous and mixed forests, as well as woodlands. It is also known to frequent plantations, parks, and gardens, often in mountainous regions, ascending to altitudes as high as 4000 meters above sea level.

Distribution

The dark-sided flycatcher breeds across a wide expanse of the East Palearctic, with its range extending from central and southern Siberia to Korea and Japan. It migrates southward to winter in areas including north-east India, Bangladesh, southern China, Taiwan, and South-east Asia, reaching as far as Sumatra, Java, Borneo, and the Philippines. Occasional vagrants have been spotted as far afield as Alaska, Iceland, and Bermuda.

Behaviour

This flycatcher employs a sit-and-wait hunting strategy, perching on an exposed branch and launching into flight to capture insects that venture too close. The female is responsible for constructing a cup-shaped nest, often situated up to 8 meters above the ground on a tree branch or occasionally in a hole. She lays three to four eggs and incubates them with the male providing sustenance during this period.

Song & Calls

The dark-sided flycatcher's vocal repertoire includes a series of thin, high-pitched notes, embellished with trills and whistles. Its call is characterized by a metallic tinkling, a sound that resonates through its forested abode.

Conservation status

The IUCN Red List categorizes the dark-sided flycatcher as Least Concern, indicating a stable population without immediate threats to its survival.