The restless flycatcher or restless myiagra is a passerine bird in the family Monarchidae; it is also known as the razor grinder or scissors grinder because of its distinctive call. It is a native of eastern and southern Australia. Populations in New Guinea and northern Australia, which were at one time considered to be a subspecies, are now accepted as a separate species, the paperbark flycatcher. It is a small to medium-sized bird and has similar colouring to the willie wagtail.
Region
Eastern and Southern Australia
Typical Environment
Favors open forests and woodlands, especially eucalypt stands, riparian corridors, and forest edges. Common in farmlands with scattered trees, shelterbelts, and along creeks and wetlands. Occurs in parks and larger gardens where mature trees provide perches. Generally avoids dense rainforest and the most arid interior, preferring mosaic habitats with open understory.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1200 m
Climate Zone
Temperate
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Also called the razor grinder or scissors grinder, it produces a distinctive, metallic buzzing call while inflating its throat. Males are glossy blue-black above with clean white underparts, while females are duller with brownish tones. It often hovers and sallies from exposed perches to snatch insects, which can make it look similar to the willie wagtail at a glance.
Photographed at Dayboro, SE Queensland, Australia
Restless flycatcher
Contrary to their name, restless flycatchers do not only eat flies. Here, one is pictured with a huntsman spider.
Temperament
active and alert; territorial in breeding season
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with agile sallies and brief hovering
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly or in pairs; pairs defend small territories during breeding. Builds a neat, shallow cup nest on a horizontal fork or thin branch, often over water. Clutch is typically 2–3 eggs; both adults participate in feeding young.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
Famous for a drawn-out, metallic buzzing or grinding call that sounds like a tiny file or scissors being sharpened. Also gives sharp chips and rapid buzzes during displays and territorial encounters.
