The Grenada flycatcher is a species of bird in the family Tyrannidae, the tyrant flycatchers. It is found in Grenada and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines.
Region
Lesser Antilles
Typical Environment
Occurs on Grenada, Saint Vincent, and several of the Grenadine islands. Prefers dry to semi-humid lowland and foothill forests, forest edges, secondary woodland, and shade plantations. It frequents open groves, scrubby pastures with scattered trees, and gardens where perches are available. Often found along edges and gaps where it can launch short sallies for insects.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 800 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A member of the tyrant flycatchers, it hunts by sallying from exposed perches to snatch insects mid-air or off foliage. It readily uses natural cavities and old woodpecker holes for nesting and can adapt to secondary growth and plantations. Its warm rufous tail and pale yellow belly are helpful field marks among similar Myiarchus flycatchers.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with quick sallies from perches
Social Behavior
Typically seen singly or in pairs, defending small territories. Pairs nest in tree cavities or old woodpecker holes and may accept nest boxes. Breeding behavior involves frequent perch changes and aerial pursuits around the nest area.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Offers sharp, whistled phrases and dry chatters, often a repeated whee-eep or peer notes. Calls are carrying and given from exposed perches, especially at dawn.
Plumage
Olive-brown upperparts with a gray-tinged head and breast, grading to pale yellow on the belly. Wings and tail show distinct rufous (cinnamon) edging; throat and upper breast are grayish to whitish. Feathers are smooth with slight contrast between dusky upperparts and brighter underparts.
Diet
Primarily captures flying and foliage-dwelling insects such as beetles, flies, wasps, and caterpillars. Occasionally takes small berries or other soft fruits when insects are less available. Foraging relies on watch-and-sally tactics, with quick aerial sorties and short gleaning hops.
Preferred Environment
Feeds along forest edges, clearings, and open woodlands with scattered perches. Also forages in plantations, gardens, and secondary growth where insect activity is high.
