White-throated Flycatcher

Overview

The white-throated flycatcher (Empidonax albigularis) is a species of tyrant flycatcher found in Mexico and Central America. It is classified as Least Concern by the IUCN, although its estimated population of at least 50,000 mature individuals is believed to be decreasing.

Identification

• Merges a brownish olive or olive brown crown and upperparts with a dull white chin and throat.
• Features two prominent light buffy wing bars on darker grayish brown wings.
• Possesses a black maxilla and a pink-orange or yellowish pink mandible, often with a dusky outer half.
• Emits a harsh, raspy call described as "rreeaah!" or "eaaahh!", with a song in northern Central America sounding like "a slightly 2-part rrrreea'ah!".

Habitat

Found in open and partially open landscapes in subtropical and lower temperate zones during the breeding season, typically near water such as wet meadows, brush, hedgerows, and vegetation along streams. In the non-breeding season, it favours freshwater marshes with tall rushes and scrubby edges in the tropical zone. It inhabits a wide elevation range, from sea level up to 3,000 m, with movements often being elevational between breeding highlands and wintering lowlands.

Diet

Feeds mostly on insects and includes a small amount of fruit in its diet. It perches low to the ground in or on the edge of open areas, capturing prey in mid-air with sallies or by gleaning from vegetation after a short flight.

Did you know?

The bird quivers its wings and tail when it lands back on a perch after capturing prey.