The buff-breasted flycatcher is a small passerine bird in the family Tyrannidae, the tyrant flycatchers. It is found from the southwestern U.S.A. to Honduras.
Region
Southwestern United States to Central America
Typical Environment
Occurs from southeastern Arizona and southwestern New Mexico south through much of Mexico to Guatemala and Honduras. It favors open pine–oak and mixed conifer woodlands, especially along canyons, forest edges, and clearings with scattered trees. In the U.S. it breeds locally in sky island mountain ranges; farther south it is more widespread in montane habitats. Birds may shift altitudinally outside the breeding season to slightly lower elevations where insects remain available.
Altitude Range
1000–3000 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A small tyrant flycatcher, the buff-breasted flycatcher favors open pine–oak woodlands and canyon edges. It is the only Empidonax with distinctly warm buff underparts, aiding identification among a notoriously tricky genus. Northern populations in the U.S. are seasonal breeders, while many Mexican and Central American birds are resident year-round. It hunts by sallying from low perches to snap up flying insects.
Buff-breasted flycatcher in Cochise County, Arizona.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with brief sallies
Social Behavior
Generally seen singly or in pairs during the breeding season, defending small territories with frequent perch changes. Builds a small cup nest on a horizontal branch or in a fork, often in pine or oak, a few meters above ground. Pairs are monogamous for the season and both parents feed the young.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
Song is a series of thin, high-pitched phrases and buzzy notes, often delivered from a low exposed perch. Calls include sharp, dry pit or pik notes used in contact and alarm. Vocalizations are softer and less explosive than many other Empidonax.
