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Overview
Pileated flycatcher

Pileated flycatcher

Wikipedia

The pileated flycatcher is a species of bird in the family Tyrannidae, the tyrant flycatchers. It is endemic to Mexico.

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Distribution

Region

Western and Central Mexico

Typical Environment

Occurs in subtropical and tropical dry forest, pine–oak woodland, and semi-open second growth with scattered trees. It frequents forest edges, ravines, coffee and shade plantations, and scrubby hillsides. Birds typically use the lower to mid canopy and sheltered clearings, often near watercourses. It tolerates moderate habitat degradation but persists best where native trees remain.

Altitude Range

600–2100 m

Climate Zone

Subtropical

Characteristics

Size12–14 cm
Wing Span18–22 cm
Male Weight0.009 kg
Female Weight0.008 kg
Life Expectancy6 years

Ease of Keeping

Beginner friendly: 1/5

Useful to know

A small tyrant flycatcher with a distinctive pointed crest, the pileated flycatcher is endemic to Mexico. It favors forest edges and lightly disturbed habitats where it sallies from low perches to catch insects. Its thin, sibilant calls often reveal its presence before it is seen. Though adaptable to secondary growth, it still relies on patches of native woodland.

Gallery

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Behaviour

Temperament

quiet and unobtrusive

Flight Pattern

short rapid wingbeats with quick sallying flights

Social Behavior

Usually seen singly or in pairs, maintaining small territories during the breeding season. Pairs are presumed monogamous, and both adults feed the young. Outside breeding, it may loosely associate with mixed-species flocks in suitable edge habitats. Nests are an open cup placed low to mid-canopy in dense foliage.

Migratory Pattern

Resident

Song Description

Song is a soft series of thin, high-pitched whistles and trills delivered from a shaded perch. Calls include sharp, sibilant tseet notes that carry in quiet forest edges.

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