The scissor-tailed flycatcher, known as swallow-tailed flycatcher or scissorstail, is a long-tailed insectivorous bird of the genus Tyrannus, whose members are collectively referred to as kingbirds. Its scientific name used to be Muscivora forficata until it was changed to Tyrannus forficatus. It is found in North and Central America, and is Oklahoma's State Bird.
Region
North and Central America
Typical Environment
Breeds primarily in the south-central United States, especially Oklahoma and Texas, extending into adjacent Great Plains states. Prefers open habitats such as prairies, ranchlands, pastures, and scrub with scattered trees and ample perches like fence lines and power lines. In winter it migrates to Mexico and Central America, using open savannas, agricultural fields, and edges of second-growth. During migration it can be found across the Gulf Coast and occasionally far beyond its usual range.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 2000 m
Climate Zone
Temperate
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Famed for its extremely long, scissor-like tail, this flycatcher performs acrobatic mid-air maneuvers to snag insects. During courtship and territorial display, it fans and pivots its tail dramatically. It readily perches on fences and utility wires in open country and is the state bird of Oklahoma.
Scissor-tailed flycatcher atop a fire hydrant in Eastern Oklahoma
Temperament
territorial in breeding season, social in migration and winter
Flight Pattern
agile flier with short rapid wingbeats and sudden sallies
Social Behavior
Generally forms monogamous pairs that defend open territories with conspicuous aerial displays. Nests are cup-shaped and placed in isolated trees or shrubs, often near human structures in open landscapes. Outside the breeding season it gathers in loose flocks and communal roosts.
Migratory Pattern
Seasonal migrant
Song Description
Vocalizations are a mix of sharp kip and kit notes, dry rattles, and chattering scolds. Dawn song can include a varied series of harsh chirps and buzzes rather than a melodious sequence.
Plumage
Pale gray head and upperparts with white to whitish underparts and salmon-pink wash on the flanks and underwing coverts. Wings are dark with pale edging; tail is very long, deeply forked, and blackish with white outer margins. Overall sleek profile accentuated by the scissor-like tail, especially in flight.
Diet
Feeds mainly on flying insects such as grasshoppers, beetles, wasps, and dragonflies, caught on the wing in acrobatic sallies. It also takes insects from the ground or from vegetation when opportunities arise. In late summer and on wintering grounds it supplements with small fruits and berries.
Preferred Environment
Hunts over open pastures, prairies, and agricultural fields, launching from prominent perches like fence posts, wires, and isolated trees. Often forages along roadsides and edges where insects are abundant.
