The leaden flycatcher is a species of passerine bird in the family Monarchidae. Around 15 cm (6 in) in length, the male is lustrous azure with white underparts, while the female possesses leaden head, mantle and back and rufous throat and breast. It is found in eastern and northern Australia, Indonesia, and Papua New Guinea. Its natural habitat is subtropical or tropical mangrove forests in the northern parts of its range, in the south and inland it is eucalypt woodland.
Region
Australasia
Typical Environment
Found across eastern and northern Australia, New Guinea, and parts of eastern Indonesia. In the tropics it frequents mangroves, monsoon forest, paperbark swamps, and coastal woodlands. Farther south it occupies open eucalypt woodland, riparian corridors, forest edges, and lightly wooded parks. It forages mainly in the mid to upper canopy and along ecotones with scattered perches. Seasonal movements see many birds shift northwards after breeding.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1500 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A nimble aerial insect hunter, the leaden flycatcher often sallies from a perch to snatch prey mid-air. Pairs build a neat cup nest bound with spider silk and camouflaged with lichens, usually on a horizontal branch. They can be conspicuously vocal during breeding, vigorously defending territories from much larger birds. The male’s glossy blue-grey can look almost black or steel-blue depending on the light.
Female, showing rufous underpartsKobble Creek, SE Queensland
Temperament
active and territorial in breeding season
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with agile sallies
Social Behavior
Typically seen singly or in pairs during breeding, forming monogamous pairs that defend small territories. The neat cup nest of bark fibers and spider web is placed on a horizontal branch, often camouflaged with lichens. Clutch size is usually 2–3 eggs; both adults feed the nestlings.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
Song is a series of clear, sweet whistles and thin metallic notes delivered from a perch. Calls include sharp chips and scolding chatters when alarmed. Phrases are often repeated and accelerate during territorial displays.
