Scarlet flycatcher

The scarlet flycatcher or austral vermilion flycatcher is a passerine bird in the family Tyrannidae, the tyrant flycatchers. It is found in Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, Paraguay, Peru, and Uruguay.

Distribution

Region

South America

Typical Environment

Occurs widely from the tropical lowlands to temperate southern South America, including open country, agricultural lands, savannas, riparian corridors, and edges of forests. It favors scattered trees, shrubs, and fence lines that provide exposed perches for aerial sallies. Common in ranchlands and pastures, as well as city parks and gardens with open sightlines. Frequently associated with watercourses and wetlands where flying insects are abundant. Avoids dense interior forest.

Altitude Range

Sea level to 2500 m

Climate Zone

Subtropical

Characteristics

Size12–14 cm

Wing Span22–25 cm

Male Weight0.013 kg

Female Weight0.012 kg

Life Expectancy5 years

Ease of Keeping

Beginner friendly: 1/5

Useful to know

Males are among the most striking of all tyrant flycatchers, blazing scarlet with contrasting dark upperparts, while females are subtly patterned brownish with a pinkish to salmon wash on the belly. They perch conspicuously on open twigs and fence lines and sally out to snatch insects in midair. The male performs fluttering display flights during courtship, often singing from exposed perches. Nests are small cups placed on horizontal branches, typically over open or riparian areas.

Gallery

Behaviour

Temperament

solitary and territorial

Flight Pattern

short rapid wingbeats with aerial sallies

Social Behavior

Usually seen singly or in pairs, defending small feeding territories with prominent perch displays. Courtship includes fluttering, song-filled display flights by the male. The nest is a neat cup placed on a horizontal branch; the female builds and incubates while the male often brings food. Pairs typically raise one or two broods in favorable seasons.

Migratory Pattern

Partial migrant

Song Description

A bright, twittering series of thin, squeaky notes delivered from exposed perches, often at dawn. Calls include sharp chips and soft trills given during foraging sallies. Males vocalize more during the breeding season and display flights.

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Identification

Comb Type

Plumage Description

Feather Color

Leg Color

Earlobe Color

Eye Color

Feeding Habits

Diet

Preferred Environment

Requires Supplement

Population

Conservation Status

Species Status

Wild Population

Total Known Population

Scarlet ibis

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Scarlet macaw

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Scarlet minivet

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Scarlet myzomela

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Scarlet tanager

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