The ferruginous flycatcher is a species of bird in the family Muscicapidae.
Region
South and Southeast Asia
Typical Environment
Breeds from the Himalayan foothills through northeastern India, Bhutan, and northern Myanmar into southern China and northern Indochina, wintering farther south into Thailand, Peninsular Malaysia, and parts of the Greater Sundas. It favors subtropical and tropical moist montane forests, often near shaded ravines and streams. During migration and winter it also uses forest edges, secondary growth, and well-wooded parks. It perches low to mid-story and makes short forays to catch flying insects under the canopy.
Altitude Range
300–2500 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The ferruginous flycatcher is a small Old World flycatcher named for its rich rusty (ferruginous) tones. It hawks insects with quick sallies from shaded perches, often along forested streams. Typically quiet and unobtrusive, it can be overlooked despite its warm coloration.
Eggs of Muscicapa ferruginea MHNT
Temperament
quiet and unobtrusive
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with quick sallies from a perch
Social Behavior
Usually solitary or in pairs during the breeding season, maintaining small territories in shaded forest. Builds a small cup nest on a ledge, tree fork, or mossy bank, often near running water. Outside the breeding season it may join loose mixed-species flocks at forest edges.
Migratory Pattern
Seasonal migrant
Song Description
Song is a soft series of thin, high-pitched whistles delivered from a shaded perch. Calls include a delicate tsip and quiet ticks, often heard more than seen in dense foliage.
