Western Flycatcher
Empidonax difficilis · Tyrant Flycatchers and Allies
The Western Flycatcher is a small, olive-and-yellow songbird found in western North America. This species was formerly split into the Pacific-slope and Cordilleran Flycatchers, but due to their nearly identical appearance, similar genetics, and extensive hybridization, they were reclassified as a single species in 2023. Distinguishing them from other similar flycatchers often relies on their unique vocalizations and specific habitat preferences.
Explore the full field guidemigratory, insectivoroussmall sizesharp songaerial insectivore
1 call·first heard Aug 5·last 67d ago
When it's heardpeak 11a · fall
5a12p9p
How to know it
- Adults have olive-gray upperparts, darker wings and tail, and yellowish underparts. Juveniles have buffy wing-bars that whiten with maturity.
- A conspicuous white eye-ring extends behind the eye in a teardrop shape.
- The bill is small, with a dark upper mandible and a bright yellow or orangish lower mandible.
- Often exhibits a distinct, upright posture and a slight crest.