FLYCATCHING has a particular meaning in the world of birds: perching in one spot to watch for flying insects, swooping out to catch them in midair and then returning to the perch. And members of the flycatcher family are masters of this behavior.
More than 400 species of flycatchers are found between Alaska and the southern tip of South America, most of them living deep in the tropics. North of the Mexican border, about 35 species are seen regularly.
Bird-watchers sometimes have trouble identifying flycatchers because so many kinds look almost identical and are recognized mainly by their voices. When getting to know these birds, it helps to start by separating them into categories. Here's a brief introduction to the main groups of flycatchers.
The Bold Kingbirds
These flycatchers are famed for their commanding behavior, fearlessly attacking much larger birds that get too close to their nests-crows, hawks and even eagles.
The eastern kingbird is widespread in summer over the eastern two-thirds of North America, often perching on fences or roadside wires. You may notice it first by its buzzy, sputtering cries as it flies overhead, chasing away some big bird and flashing the broad white band at the tip of its tail. During summer in the Great Plains, the eastern kingbird overlaps with the western kingbird, which has similar habits but different colors, including a bright yellow belly.
Five other kingbirds are found in Florida, parts of the West and near the Mexican border. And a relative of kingbirds, the spectacular scissortailed flycatcher, is seen from Texas up to Nebraska, east to Missouri and south to Louisiana. In addition, it represents Oklahoma as the state bird.
The Gentle Phoebes
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
Maple Mania
Amazing facts about this fall foliage mainstay
Sense or Nonsense?
Why some birds can taste and smell - but others can't
IN GOOD COMPANY
BIRDS OF A FEATHER MAY FLOCK TOGETHER, but what about other collectives of critters-and what do you call them when they do?
YOUR OWN Perfect Prairie
Learn how to cultivate an oasis of grassland flora in your backyard
ON THE MOVE
Birds approach the challenges of migration in surprising ways. Learn about how they walk, swim or take the scenic route during their travels.
Autumn Wonders
Fall colors offer befitting backdrops for these stunning reader photos
Sparrow Look-Alikes
Distinct sounds help separate these similar species
Embracing the Darkness
From black plants to moody decor, Gothic garden elements can offer a unique outlet to express your dark side
Red-Hot Plants
Scarlet-hued berries add a pop of color to any garden
Food-Focused and Fierce
Meet Canada jays and learn why they eat almost anything they can find