Yucatan Flycatcher

Overview

The Yucatan flycatcher (Myiarchus yucatanensis) is a species of tyrant flycatcher found in Belize, Guatemala, and Mexico. It is a resident species across its range and is currently assessed as Least Concern by the IUCN, though its population is believed to be decreasing.

Identification

• Measures 17.5 to 19 cm in length and weighs 19 to 23 g, with identical plumage in both sexes.
• Features a distinctive rufescent crest on the crown, greyish lores, and a grey throat and breast transitioning to yellow underparts.
• Displays olive-green upperparts with rufous tinges, brown wings with rufous outer edges, and a dark blackish iris, bill, and legs.
• Distinguished from similar species by its rufescent crown, producing a dawn song described as a pleasant whistled 'wuueeee!'.

Habitat

This species inhabits semi-open tropical landscapes, including the edges of humid and semi-arid deciduous forests, scrubby woodlands, and rainforest clearings. Its range covers eastern Tabasco and the Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico, as well as parts of Belize and Guatemala, occurring at elevations from sea level to approximately 250 m.

Diet

While its diet has not been extensively studied, it is known to consume Hymenoptera. The bird forages within the mid-story of the forest.

Did you know?

The population of the subspecies M. y. lanyoni on Cozumel Island is surprisingly difficult to locate at times, raising specific concerns about its conservation status despite the species' overall stable classification.