Myiarchus magnirostris
The Galapagos Flycatcher, *Myiarchus magnirostris*, is a charming and endemic passerine found exclusively in the Galápagos Islands. Measuring approximately 14.5-16 cm (5.7-6.3 in) in length and weighing around 12-15 grams, this medium-sized flycatcher exhibits a relatively large bill for its body size, a key diagnostic feature. Its plumage is characterized by dusky olive-brown upperparts, a grayish throat and chest, contrasting with a pale yellowish belly. Distinctive rufous edgings on its wi...
This adaptable species inhabits a wide range of terrestrial environments across the Galápagos, from arid lowland scrub and deciduous forests to transition zones, agricultural areas, and even human settlements, typically from sea level up to higher elevations on larger islands.
Primarily insectivorous, feeding on a wide variety of arthropods including flies, beetles, moths, grasshoppers, and spiders. They occasionally supplement their diet with small fruits, berries, and even tiny lizards.
Galapagos Flycatchers are active diurnal insectivores, typically observed singly or in pairs. They are classic 'sally-foragers,' perching conspicuously on a branch and launching swift, acrobatic flights to snatch insects mid-air (aerial hawking) or gleaning them from foliage and the ground. Terri...
The Galapagos Flycatcher is a resident, non-migratory species found throughout the entire Galápagos archipelago in Ecuador. Its distribution spans most of the major islands, including Isabela, Santa Cruz, San Cristóbal, Fernandina, Floreana, Santiago, Española, Pinta, Genovesa, Marchena, Pinzón, ...
Least Concern
- The Galapagos Flycatcher is the only species of *Myiarchus* flycatcher found in the Galápagos, making it an endemic evolutionary outlier within its genus. - Despite living in the same archipelago, it is not related to Darwin's Finches but represents a distinct colonization event by a mainland S...