The black phoebe is a passerine bird in the tyrant-flycatcher family. It breeds from southwest Oregon and California south through Central and South America. It occurs year-round throughout most of its range and migrates less than the other birds in its genus though its northern populations are partially migratory. Six subspecies are commonly recognized although two are occasionally combined as a separate species, the white-winged phoebe.
Region
Western North America through Central America to parts of South America
Typical Environment
Common along streams, ponds, wetlands, and coastal edges, as well as in parks, ranches, and towns where water is nearby. Prefers open or semi-open habitats with scattered perches from which it can launch short aerial sallies. Often occupies riparian corridors and canyon walls, taking advantage of ledges and overhangs for nesting. Tolerant of human presence and frequently found near bridges, dams, and culverts.
Altitude Range
0–3000 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A water-loving tyrant flycatcher, the black phoebe often hunts insects by sallying out from low perches and frequently pumps its tail. It readily nests on human structures such as bridges, culverts, and building eaves, constructing a mud cup nest lined with plant fibers. Most populations are year-round residents, with only the northernmost birds moving south in winter. Several subspecies are recognized, and some authors have treated certain white-marked forms as the separate white-winged phoebe.
Juveniles have a browner plumage, which darkens into black as the bird ages
Black phoebe (white-winged)
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with frequent short sallies from a perch
Social Behavior
Typically defends linear territories along water. Pairs form for the breeding season; the female builds a mud cup nest on a ledge or under an overhang while the male guards the territory. Both parents feed the young, and multiple broods in a season are common where conditions allow.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
A clear, buzzy two-parted song often rendered as a bright pee-wee or see-wee, interspersed with sharp tsip or pik call notes. Vocalizations are delivered frequently from exposed perches, especially near water.
Plumage
Sooty to blackish overall with a crisp, contrasting white belly and lower breast; wings can show faint pale edging.
Diet
Primarily flying insects such as flies, wasps, beetles, and small moths, captured on short aerial sallies. Also gleans prey from the ground or water surface and occasionally takes small aquatic invertebrates. Opportunistic around water where insect emergences are frequent.
Preferred Environment
Forages from low, open perches near water—fences, rocks, branches, or human structures—making quick sorties to catch prey. Often works along stream banks, ponds, and shaded edges where insects concentrate.
