Tyrannus melancholicus
The Tropical Kingbird (*Tyrannus melancholicus*) is a striking and widespread flycatcher, instantly recognizable by its vibrant bright yellow underparts contrasting with an olive-green back and grey head. Averaging 20-24 cm (8-9.5 inches) in length with a weight of 37-41 grams, it possesses a dark, stout bill and a subtly notched tail. A distinctive field mark is its overall bright yellow belly combined with a relatively plain grey head, often showing a slightly darker ear patch, differentiat...
This adaptable species thrives in open or semi-open habitats, including forest edges, clearings, savannas, riparian zones, urban parks, and agricultural areas, typically found from sea level up to 2,500-3,000 meters in elevation.
Primarily insectivorous, the Tropical Kingbird feeds on a wide variety of flying insects, including flies, bees, wasps, beetles, and dragonflies, captured in mid-air (aerial hawking). They also supplement their diet with small fruits and berries, especially during non-breeding seasons.
Tropical Kingbirds are diurnal and highly active during daylight hours, often perching conspicuously on exposed branches or power lines. They are classic sit-and-wait predators, sallying out in powerful, agile flights to snatch flying insects from the air, returning to the same or a nearby perch....
The Tropical Kingbird boasts an immense geographic distribution, breeding from southern Arizona and southern Texas, south through Mexico and Central America, and across most of South America to central Argentina. While many populations across Central and South America are year-round residents, no...
Least Concern
- The scientific name *Tyrannus melancholicus* translates to 'melancholy tyrant,' a curious misnomer for such a bold and vocal bird. - Tropical Kingbirds are renowned for their fearless aggression, often mobbing and driving off much larger birds, including hawks, crows, and even vultures, from th...