Myiarchus antillarum
The Puerto Rican Flycatcher (Myiarchus antillarum) is a captivating, medium-sized tyrant flycatcher endemic to the island of Puerto Rico. Measuring approximately 20-23 cm (8-9 inches) in length with a weight typically ranging from 25-35 grams, it presents a distinctive appearance with its olive-brown upperparts, a noticeable crest, and a pale grey throat and breast that sharply contrast with a bright sulphur-yellow belly. Key field marks include prominent rufous patches in the wings and tail,...
Primarily inhabits a variety of wooded environments, including dry and moist forests, secondary growth, plantations, shade coffee farms, and even suburban gardens with mature trees, from sea level up to mid-elevations.
Consists mainly of a wide variety of insects, such as beetles, wasps, and butterflies, captured through active sallying and gleaning; occasionally consumes small fruits and berries.
This diurnal flycatcher is an active and vocal bird, often seen perched upright on a prominent branch, scanning its surroundings. Its foraging strategy is typical of many flycatchers, primarily involving short, acrobatic sallies from a perch to snatch flying insects mid-air, but it also gleans pr...
The Puerto Rican Flycatcher is entirely resident within the political boundaries of Puerto Rico, inhabiting suitable wooded and forested habitats across the main island. Its distribution spans from the coastal lowlands, where it can be found in remnant forest patches and mangroves, up through the...
Least Concern
- The Puerto Rican Flycatcher is entirely endemic to Puerto Rico, meaning it is found nowhere else in the world. - Unlike many tropical birds, it is a primary cavity nester, relying on natural tree hollows or abandoned woodpecker holes. - Its scientific name, antillarum, refers to its presence in...