Myiodynastes luteiventris
The Sulphur-bellied Flycatcher is a striking and relatively large member of the Tyrannidae family, notable for its bold coloration and boisterous vocalizations. Measuring 18-22 cm (7-8.7 in) in length with a wingspan of 30-36 cm (12-14 in) and weighing 40-55 g (1.4-1.9 oz), it sports a vibrant sulphur-yellow belly that contrasts sharply with its heavily streaked breast and flanks. Its olive-brown back, prominent white supercilium, and dark eye stripe are distinctive field marks that aid ident...
Primarily inhabits humid or semi-humid tropical and subtropical forests, woodlands, and forest edges, often favoring mountainous regions and riparian zones. Found across a wide elevational range, from near sea level up to 3,000 meters (9,800 feet).
Primarily insectivorous, preying on a wide array of flying and terrestrial insects such as beetles, bees, wasps, and grasshoppers, captured in flight or gleaned. Also supplements its diet with small fruits and berries, especially during migration and in winter.
This diurnal flycatcher is often observed perching conspicuously from high, open branches, maintaining a vigilant watch over its territory. It employs a 'sally-strike' foraging strategy, launching from its perch to snatch insects in mid-air or glean them from foliage, sometimes hover-gleaning. Hi...
The breeding range of the Sulphur-bellied Flycatcher extends from southeastern Arizona and southwestern New Mexico in the United States, south through western and southern Mexico, and across much of Central America down to Costa Rica. In its northernmost breeding areas, it favors pine-oak and syc...
Least Concern
- It is one of the largest flycatchers regularly found within its North American breeding range. - Its scientific name, Myiodynastes luteiventris, literally means 'strong-ruled yellow-bellied,' a perfect description of its appearance. - This species is a long-distance Neotropical migrant, traveli...