Myiarchus phaeocephalus
The Sooty-crowned Flycatcher, *Myiarchus phaeocephalus*, is a medium-sized tyrant flycatcher renowned for its distinctive dark head, which gives it its common name. Measuring approximately 18-20 cm (7.1-7.9 inches) in length and weighing around 24-30 grams (0.85-1.06 ounces), this active bird exhibits a sleek olive-gray back, a contrasting pale gray throat, and a warm, pale yellow belly. Key field marks include the eponymous sooty-blackish crown, a stout, broad bill, and subtle rufous edgings...
Found in dry to semi-humid deciduous forests, arid scrublands, and open woodlands, often at forest edges and clearings. Typically occurs from sea level up to 2,500 meters (8,200 feet) in elevation.
Primarily insectivorous, consuming a wide range of arthropods such as flies, beetles, grasshoppers, moths, and spiders, captured through aerial sallies or gleaning from vegetation. Occasionally supplements its diet with small fruits or berries.
Sooty-crowned Flycatchers are diurnal and generally solitary or found in pairs, becoming more vocal and active during the breeding season. They are classic sally-gleaners, perching conspicuously on exposed branches, scanning for prey, and then launching quick, agile flights to snatch insects from...
The Sooty-crowned Flycatcher is a resident species, primarily distributed along the Pacific slopes of western South America and in inter-Andean valleys. Its range extends from northern Colombia, through much of western Ecuador, and south into northwestern Peru. In Colombia, it is found in the Cau...
Least Concern
- The Sooty-crowned Flycatcher's species name, *phaeocephalus*, literally translates from Greek to 'dusky-headed,' perfectly describing its most prominent field mark. - Like many *Myiarchus* flycatchers, it is known for often incorporating pieces of shed snake skin into its nest lining, a behavio...