Tyrant Flycatchers

Eastern Phoebe, Sayornis phoebe

Family Tyrannidae (Tyrant Flycatchers)

Size: 7"

Season: Summer

Habitat: Brushy streamsides

The eastern phoebe is a compact, large-headed flycatcher with a thin, pointed bill and a long tail that it habitually pumps up and down. The plumage is grayish across the back, wings, tail, and head, with darker areas on the face and crown. The underparts are white, sometimes washed with pale yellow on the belly, with a bit of gray extending onto the sides of the breast. The wing bars are quite dull, and there is no distinct eye ring. Sexes are similar, and juveniles show more yellow on the underparts. Eastern phoebes fly-catch for insects from branch tips or fence wires, and sing a song that sounds somewhat like its name, fee-bee, or a series of chattering sit notes. The adult is illustrated.