Myiarchus semirufus
The Rufous Flycatcher (Myiarchus semirufus) is a captivating, medium-sized tyrant flycatcher, critically endangered and endemic to a highly restricted region of northern Peru. Measuring approximately 18 cm (7 inches) in length and weighing around 25 grams, its most striking feature, and the origin of its common name, is the rich rufous (rusty-orange) coloration on the inner webs of its tail feathers, the edges of its flight feathers, and prominent undertail coverts. This vibrant rufous contra...
This highly specialized flycatcher inhabits arid, thorny scrublands and dry deciduous forests, particularly favoring areas along river valleys in its restricted Peruvian range. It is typically found at elevations ranging from 200 to 1,000 meters above sea level.
The Rufous Flycatcher is primarily insectivorous, sallying from perches to catch flying insects or gleaning them from vegetation. It may occasionally supplement its diet with small fruits or berries.
The Rufous Flycatcher is generally observed singly or in pairs, typically perching upright on exposed branches within the mid-story or canopy of trees, from which it sally-flies to capture aerial insects. Its foraging strategy involves short, agile flights to snatch prey from the air or glean ins...
The Rufous Flycatcher boasts one of the most restricted avian ranges globally, being strictly endemic to a small, isolated region within the lower Marañón Valley of northern Peru. Its known distribution spans portions of the Cajamarca and La Libertad departments, primarily concentrated along the ...
Critically Endangered
- The Rufous Flycatcher was considered 'lost' to science for nearly 90 years, from its initial discovery in the late 19th century until its rediscovery in 1970. - It is one of the most geographically restricted bird species in the world, endemic to a tiny portion of the Marañón Valley in northern...