Willow Flycatcher

Empidonax traillii

WIFL

Order: Passeriformes | Family: Tyrannidae (Tyrant Flycatchers)
Willow Flycatcher 1

Bird Description

Fairly common breeder with more s. distribution than ALFL. Often found together where ranges overlap, but favors scrubbier wet areas. Arrives on breeding grounds mid-May onwards and starts moving s. in late Jul. Call a ‘whit,’ a little stronger than LEFL. ID: Large, long-tailed, long-billed and often with slight crest — pewee-like in many respects, enhanced by indistinct or lack of eyering. Slightly smaller than EAWP with shorter primary projection and lacks darker vest on breast. Plumage usually olive-brown lacking contrast between head and back. Underparts off-white but sometimes with yellow wash. Juv: fresher plumage in fall with buffer wing bars.

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