The Ash-throated Flycatcher is a unique and fascinating bird known for its subtle yet distinctive appearance and intriguing behaviors. With its pale lemon belly, cinnamon tail, and ash-gray head, this medium-sized bird stands out in its natural habitat. What makes the Ash-throated Flycatcher truly captivating to bird enthusiasts and casual observers alike are the quirky and surprising habits it exhibits.
Native to the southwestern United States and Mexico, the Ash-throated Flycatcher is often found in dry, open woodlands and deserts. Its choice of nesting materials and vocal habits reveal much about its adaptability and survival techniques. This article aims to uncover some of the most peculiar and interesting facts about this charming bird, offering readers a deeper appreciation for its role in the ecosystem.
1) Nesting habits in cavities
The Ash-throated Flycatcher often nests in natural cavities found in trees and large cacti. They are also known to utilize old woodpecker holes.
Males and females work together to build their nest. The construction materials typically include twigs, weeds, and grasses, with softer materials added for lining.
These flycatchers readily adapt to man-made structures like nest boxes. This adaptability aids in their survival, especially in areas where natural cavities may be scarce.
2) Diet includes insects and small fruits
The Ash-throated Flycatcher primarily feeds on a variety of insects. These include spiders, wasps, bees, caterpillars, and flies. They actively forage lower to the ground, often in open habitats, to catch their prey.
In addition to insects, this bird also supplements its diet with small fruits. They enjoy fruits from plants such as cardon, saguaro, and mistletoe.
This combination of insects and fruits provides them with a balanced diet year-round. During times when insects are sparse, the availability of fruits helps sustain them.
Their foraging behavior is interesting to observe. They perch quietly before darting out to snatch flying insects or pluck fruits from nearby vegetation.
3) Distinctive song and call
The Ash-throated Flycatcher is known for its unique vocalizations, which include a variety of calls and songs. Among its most recognizable sounds is the soft, low “ka-brik,” often repeated in a series.
During the early morning hours, this bird can be heard performing its dawn song. The dawn song typically consists of a series of whistles and chirps, creating a soft, melodic tune that carries through its habitat.
Aside from its primary calls, the Ash-throated Flycatcher sometimes emits a “peek-a-boo” sound. This call is less frequent but adds to its distinct vocal repertoire.
These calls and songs make it easier for bird watchers and enthusiasts to identify the Ash-throated Flycatcher in the wild, even when the bird itself is not in clear view.
4) Breeding Season from April to July
The Ash-throated Flycatcher begins its breeding season in April, which continues through to July. During this time, they are actively building nests and raising their young.
Their nests are typically constructed in natural cavities or abandoned woodpecker holes. The nests are made of twigs, weeds, and grass lined with softer materials.
Egg-laying usually occurs in late April or early May. Each clutch typically contains 4-5 whitish eggs with darker markings.
Both parents participate in feeding the chicks. The incubation period lasts around 15 days, while fledging occurs approximately two weeks after hatching.
Breeding pairs often select low oaks or mesquite trees for nesting. This behavior helps protect their young from predators.
5) Migrate to Central America in Winter
Ash-throated Flycatchers migrate to Central America during the winter. They leave their breeding grounds in the southwestern United States and Mexico for milder climates. Their migration journey can cover thousands of miles.
These birds travel to regions such as Mexico and other parts of Central America. They seek warmer temperatures and abundant food sources. The more suitable climate helps them survive through the winter months.
They find places like forests and wooded areas as their habitats in these regions. Their preferred environments provide ample cover and food. Migration is essential for their survival and plays a key role in their life cycle.
6) Known for their monogamous nature
The Ash-throated Flycatcher exhibits monogamous behavior, often forming long-term pair bonds. Once a pair has established their bond, they work together in raising their offspring and defending their territory.
These birds choose their nesting sites carefully. They typically prefer natural cavities or old woodpecker holes in trees or cacti. Both members of the pair participate in nest building using twigs, weeds, and grass.
Monogamous pairs also coordinate feeding their young. This cooperation ensures that the chicks receive adequate nutrition and care. Observers frequently see both parents taking turns bringing food to the nestlings.
In territories where resources are abundant, these bonds are particularly strong. The consistent partnership not only enhances their reproductive success but also strengthens their ability to guard their territory against rivals and predators.
7) Prefers Arid and Semi-Arid Habitats
The Ash-throated Flycatcher is often found in arid and semi-arid regions. These areas include deserts, dry scrublands, and open woodlands. Arid landscapes support their lifestyle and feeding habits.
These birds thrive in hot climates where water sources are scarce. Their diet, which includes insects and spiders, provides all the moisture they need. This adaptation allows them to inhabit regions with minimal rainfall.
They are frequently seen perched on low trees and shrubs like mesquite or oaks. Such vegetation offers ample opportunities for hunting while providing necessary cover. This preference for dry habitats is a notable characteristic of the Ash-throated Flycatcher.
8) Size ranges from 7.5 to 9 inches
The Ash-throated Flycatcher is a medium-sized bird with a length that typically varies between 7.5 and 8.6 inches. This puts it in a manageable size range for those interested in bird watching, making it easier to spot in its natural habitat.
Male and female Ash-throated Flycatchers are generally similar in size. However, males can be slightly larger than females. The wingspan of this bird ranges from 11.8 to 12.6 inches, contributing to its nimble flight capabilities.
Despite its relatively modest length, the Ash-throated Flycatcher has a substantial presence due to its long tail and slightly peaked crest. These physical features enhance its appearance, making it stand out among other birds of similar size.
In terms of weight, the Ash-throated Flycatcher tips the scales at around 0.7 to 1.3 ounces. This lightweight nature aids in its agile movements through trees and open habitats.
9) Both parents feed the nestlings
Both male and female Ash-throated Flycatchers participate in feeding their young. This cooperative effort starts as soon as the eggs hatch.
The female incubates the eggs for about 15 days. Once the nestlings emerge, both parents work tirelessly to provide food.
They mainly feed the young with insects and spiders, which are abundant in their dry habitats. This shared responsibility ensures that the nestlings receive adequate nutrition.
The feeding duration lasts until the nestlings are capable of flight, typically around 14 to 16 days after hatching. Such joint caregiving is crucial for the survival of the young considering the harsh environmental conditions.
10) A prominent crest on the head
The Ash-throated Flycatcher features a distinctive peaked crest on its relatively large head. This crest gives the bird a unique profile, making it easier to identify from a distance.
The crest is not extremely pronounced but is noticeable enough to set it apart from some other flycatcher species.
While perched, the crest can sometimes appear more flattened, depending on the bird’s activity and mood.
In flight or during heightened activity, the crest tends to become more visible, adding to the bird’s striking appearance. This subtle yet unmistakable feature helps bird watchers and enthusiasts easily spot the Ash-throated Flycatcher in its natural habitat.
11) Lays 3-7 eggs per clutch
The Ash-throated Flycatcher typically lays between 3 to 7 eggs per clutch. Each egg is pale in color, often adorned with subtle speckling.
After the female lays her eggs, she incubates them for around 13 to 15 days. During this period, the male plays a supportive role, defending the nesting territory and providing food to the female.
The eggs hatch nearly simultaneously, ensuring that all the nestlings are at a similar developmental stage. Nestlings remain in the nest for about 13 to 17 days after hatching.
This species is known for its adaptability to various environmental conditions. By laying 3 to 7 eggs, the Ash-throated Flycatcher maximizes its chances of successfully raising offspring in varying circumstances.
12) Ash-throated Flycatcher scientific name Myiarchus cinerascens
The Ash-throated Flycatcher, scientifically named Myiarchus cinerascens, was first described in 1851. George Newbold Lawrence provided the initial classification after examining a specimen from western Texas.
The name Myiarchus is derived from Greek roots, meaning “fly ruler” or “fly master,” fitting for a species that adeptly hunts insects.
The species designation, cinerascens, translates to “ashen” or “grayish,” highlighting the bird’s subtle plumage. The combination of the genus and species name aptly describes this bird’s characteristics and behavior.
13) Prefers Open Woodlands and Brushy Areas
The Ash-throated Flycatcher is often found in open woodlands and brushy areas. This bird thrives in habitats where low oaks, mesquite trees, and other scrubby vegetation are present.
It avoids dense forests and highly urbanized regions, choosing instead semi-arid environments. The varied vegetation provides ample perches and lookouts for this flycatcher’s feeding habits.
In these open spaces, the Ash-throated Flycatcher can easily spot and catch insects. The bird’s subtle coloring helps it blend into its surroundings, making it well-adapted to the scrubby landscapes it prefers.
14) Can be found in deserts and grasslands
The Ash-throated Flycatcher thrives in open woodlands, deserts, and grasslands. They prefer areas with sparse trees and plenty of open space for catching insects in flight.
These birds often perch on low bushes and small trees, using exposed branches to launch their aerial hunts.
Habitats like the mesquite brush and oak savannas in the Southwest United States are common areas for them.
In these environments, the Ash-throated Flycatcher builds nests in natural cavities or old woodpecker holes.
Desert and grassland habitats provide ample opportunities for foraging, offering a steady supply of insects and other small prey.
The adaptability of the Ash-throated Flycatcher to varying dry landscapes is remarkable, making them a common sight in these regions.
15) Remarkable Adaptability to Various Habitats
The Ash-throated Flycatcher displays an impressive capacity to thrive in different environments. This bird can be found in deserts, woodlands, and riparian zones. Its wide range speaks to its versatile nature.
In arid regions, it blends seamlessly into the surroundings with its muted feather colors. This adaptation helps it stay safe from predators.
In open woodlands, it perches on low branches and forages among the trees. This flycatcher is also known to take advantage of mesquite and oak habitats.
Riparian zones provide another viable habitat, with the bird often seen near water sources. Here, its diet and behavior remain consistent despite the change in landscape.
Its ability to utilize natural cavities or woodpecker holes for nesting shows further adaptability. The Ash-throated Flycatcher constructs nests in a variety of locations depending on what is available.
This adaptability not only expands its range but also enhances its chances for survival. It can adjust to seasonal changes and varying ecological conditions, a testament to its resilience.
The bird’s diverse diet, which includes insects and small fruits, supports its presence in multiple habitats. This dietary flexibility ensures it can find food sources across different environments.
16) Commonly uses man-made nest boxes
The Ash-throated Flycatcher often makes use of man-made nest boxes for breeding and nesting. These birds are adaptable and readily accept human-made structures as suitable sites for raising their young.
They will select nest boxes, pipes, fence posts, and ledges under eaves or porches for their nests. This preference for artificial nesting sites makes them relatively easy to monitor and attract in residential areas.
Unlike some other birds, the Ash-throated Flycatcher rarely uses snakeskin in its nests. Only a small percentage of observed nests have contained this material. This characteristic further differentiates them from other members of their genus.
Putting up a nest box can be an excellent way to observe these intriguing birds up close. The availability of suitable artificial nesting sites can significantly aid their reproduction, especially in regions where natural cavities are scarce.
17) Their nests often made of grass, hair, and fur
Ash-throated Flycatchers construct their nests using a variety of materials. These birds predominantly use grass, hair, and animal fur to create a cozy and secure environment for their eggs.
Grass is a primary component in their nest building, providing both structure and comfort. The flexibility and availability of grass make it an ideal choice.
In addition to grass, hair and fur from mammals are woven into the nest. This adds softness and insulation, ensuring that the eggs and chicks remain warm.
The combination of grass, hair, and fur showcases the flycatcher’s resourcefulness. These materials are readily available in their habitat, aiding in the efficient construction of their nests.
18) Has a long, broad bill
The Ash-throated Flycatcher possesses a long, broad bill that is well-suited for its feeding habits. This distinctive feature allows it to efficiently capture insects in mid-air.
The broadness of the bill helps in grasping and holding onto prey, making it an effective tool for catching a variety of insects.
The bill also enables the bird to consume fruits during the fall and winter months, showcasing its adaptability.
This adaptation supports the Ash-throated Flycatcher’s survival in its arid and scrubby habitats.
19) Displays wing-flicking behavior when perched
The Ash-throated Flycatcher exhibits distinct wing-flicking behavior while perched. This small maneuver might seem subtle, but it serves significant purposes in the bird’s daily life.
When perched among low oaks or mesquite trees, this behavior is likely linked to communication. The wing-flicking can signal alertness or readiness to other nearby birds.
Another reason for the wing-flicking could be to ward off insects. This can be particularly useful when perched in their natural habitats where pests are common.
Wing-flicking might also play a role in attracting mates. Consistent movements can highlight the flycatcher’s physical condition to potential partners.
20) Primarily found in western North America
The Ash-throated Flycatcher predominantly inhabits the arid and open landscapes of western North America. It ranges from as far north as Washington, occasionally, to down into Mexico.
These birds prefer environments such as deserts, scrublands, and open woodlands. They are especially common in areas with low oaks and mesquite trees.
Their distinctive pale lemon belly and cinnamon tail can often be seen among the foliage of these areas, making them a familiar sight for bird watchers in the western United States and Mexico. They play a vital role in their ecosystem, particularly in controlling insect populations.
21) Ash-throated Flycatcher lifespan is about 10 years
The Ash-throated Flycatcher, a medium-sized bird, has a lifespan of about 10 years. These birds are found in desert habitats and arid regions.
They typically live in environments that include low oaks and mesquite trees. Their ability to blend into their surroundings protects them from predators.
Although some individual birds may not reach this age due to natural threats, many thrive and lead relatively long lives for small birds. Their behavior, such as careful perching and diet, contributes to their survival.
Habitat and Distribution
The Ash-throated Flycatcher, with its signature pale lemon belly and cinnamon tail, thrives in arid regions and prefers specific environments for nesting and foraging.
Native Range
The range of the Ash-throated Flycatcher spans the western parts of North America. They are found from the southwestern United States, including states like Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas. Extending south, they also inhabit parts of Mexico, reaching as far as the Baja California peninsula.
This flycatcher is a migratory bird. In winter, they migrate to Central American countries such as Guatemala and Honduras. Some individuals can even be seen as far south as Costa Rica. This broad range supports diverse population pockets across various regions.
Preferred Habitats
The Ash-throated Flycatcher prefers habitats characterized by dry, open woodland areas with scattered trees. They are commonly found in environments such as deserts, mesquite groves, and oak savannas. They also adapt well to areas with junipers and cacti.
Nesting is typically done in natural cavities or old woodpecker holes, often in trees or large cacti. They require open areas for foraging but benefit from the cover provided by low vegetation. Key elements of their habitat include: access to insects for food and suitable nesting sites.
This bird’s ability to thrive in such diverse, arid conditions underscores its adaptability and resourcefulness in selecting nesting and foraging sites.
Behavioral Traits
The Ash-throated Flycatcher is known for its unique courtship displays and opportunistic feeding habits, which make it an adaptable and intriguing bird species.
Mating Rituals
Mating involves distinct vocalizations and displays. Males sing to attract females, often using a series of high-pitched whistles. Courtship includes the male performing aerial displays, showcasing agility. Wing-fluttering and short flights between perches are common, aimed at impressing potential mates.
Once paired, the pair strengthens their bond through cooperative nest-building. They often choose cavities in trees or artificial nest boxes. The female lays 3-5 eggs, which she incubates while the male provides food. Parental roles are clearly defined, with both taking part in feeding the hatchlings.
Feeding Patterns
Ash-throated Flycatchers have an adaptive diet. They primarily catch insects mid-air using their agile flight, a behavior known as hawking. They also perch and sally forth to snatch prey from foliage, a method called gleaning. Their diet includes insects like beetles, grasshoppers, and caterpillars.
In times of scarcity, they consume fruits and berries, showing dietary flexibility. Feeding activity peaks in the early morning and late afternoon when insects are most active. Their foraging strategy reduces competition, allowing them to thrive in diverse habitats, from arid deserts to woodlands.