Dark-sided Flycatcher

Overview

The dark-sided flycatcher, also known as the Siberian flycatcher, is a small passerine bird in the Old World flycatcher family. It has a wide breeding distribution across the East Palearctic, with northern populations migrating south for the winter.

Identification

• 13 to 14 cm in length with plain dark grey-brown upperparts, featuring a pale wingbar and pale edging on the tertial feathers.
• White throat outlined by a pale submoustachial and dark malar stripe, with a variable amount of streaky dark grey-brown on the breast and flanks.
• Large eye with a whitish ring, a short dark bill, and black feet.
• Song consists of thin, high-pitched notes with trills and whistles, accompanied by a metallic tinkling call.

Habitat

It inhabits coniferous and mixed forest and woodland, and is occasionally seen in plantations, parks, and gardens. The species typically occurs in mountainous regions, reaching elevations of 4000 metres above sea level in some areas. Its breeding range extends from Afghanistan and Siberia to China, Korea, and Japan, with wintering grounds covering parts of South-east Asia.

Diet

The bird forages by perching on an exposed branch and waiting for prey. When an insect flies past, it dashes out to snatch it.

Did you know?

The name 'sooty flycatcher' is also used for the unrelated African species Artomyias infuscata.