Tyrannus tyrannus
This striking New World flycatcher, *Tyrannus tyrannus*, measures approximately 20-23 cm (8-9 inches) in length with a wingspan of 33-38 cm (13-15 inches) and typically weighs between 33-55 grams. It is easily identified by its contrasting sooty black upperparts, pristine white underparts, and a distinctive black tail with a prominent white terminal band, a key field mark for identification even at a distance. A concealed scarlet-orange crown patch, visible only during intense display or exci...
Prefers open or semi-open country with scattered trees, shrublands, agricultural fields, orchards, and riparian corridors, often found near water bodies. Commonly occurs at low to mid elevations, rarely above 2,000 meters.
Primarily insectivorous, catching a wide variety of flying insects like bees, wasps, beetles, grasshoppers, and flies mid-air. Supplements its diet with wild berries and small fruits, especially during late summer and migration.
Eastern Kingbirds are highly diurnal, spending their days perched conspicuously on elevated branches, wires, or fences, constantly scanning for flying insects. Their foraging strategy involves aerial sallies, launching from a perch to snatch insects mid-air before returning, sometimes to the same...
The Eastern Kingbird boasts an extensive breeding range across most of temperate North America, stretching from southern Canada, throughout the eastern and central United States, and occasionally into parts of the southwestern U.S. West of the Rockies, their breeding distribution becomes more pat...
Least Concern
- The Eastern Kingbird's scientific name, *Tyrannus tyrannus*, literally translates to 'tyrant tyrant,' a fitting description for its famously aggressive and fearless nature. - Despite its relatively small size, it's known to relentlessly chase and harass large birds of prey, crows, and even hero...