The rusty-margined flycatcher is a species of bird in the family Tyrannidae, the tyrant flycatchers. It is found in Panama and every mainland South American country except Chile and Uruguay, though only as a vagrant to Argentina. It has also been recorded as a vagrant in Costa Rica.
Region
Central America and northern–central South America
Typical Environment
Occurs from Panama through much of the tropical lowlands of South America, absent only from Chile and Uruguay, with occasional vagrants reaching Costa Rica and northern Argentina. Prefers forest edges, second growth, river corridors, savannas, and agricultural mosaics including pastures and plantations. Common in towns, gardens, and parklands where scattered trees provide perches. It avoids dense interior rainforest but thrives in open and semi-open habitats.
Altitude Range
0–1700 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Often confused with the Social Flycatcher and Great Kiskadee, it can be told by the warm rusty edges on the wing coverts and a cleaner white eyebrow with a narrower mask. It readily uses human-altered habitats and often nests near wasp or ant nests, likely to deter predators. Pairs are conspicuous, sallying from exposed perches to catch insects. Its adaptability has helped it remain common across much of its range.
Near Playas de Juan Hombron, Panama
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with frequent sallies from exposed perches
Social Behavior
Usually seen in pairs or small family groups, often holding territories with prominent song posts. Builds a bulky nest, frequently near stinging-insect colonies such as wasps for added protection. Both sexes participate in territory defense and provisioning of young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations include sharp, scolding chips and a chattering series interspersed with squeaky notes. The song is less strident than a Great Kiskadee’s, often a repetitive, buzzy chatter delivered from an open perch.
Plumage
Olive-brown upperparts with distinct rusty edging on the wing coverts; bright yellow underparts. A black facial mask contrasts with a bold white supercilium and pale grayish crown, often with a concealed orange crown patch. Tail brownish with faint rufous tones.
Diet
Primarily takes flying insects such as flies, beetles, and winged ants caught on the wing. Also gleans from foliage and occasionally snatches prey from the ground or water surface. Supplements diet with small fruits and berries, especially in the non-breeding season or when insects are scarce.
Preferred Environment
Forages along forest edges, riparian corridors, clearings, and in human-modified landscapes with scattered trees and fences. Frequently hunts from exposed perches like wires, treetops, or fence posts, making short sallies to capture prey.
