The stolid flycatcher is a species of bird in the family Tyrannidae, the tyrant flycatchers. It is found in the Dominican Republic, Haiti, and Jamaica.
Region
Greater Antilles
Typical Environment
Occurs on Jamaica and the island of Hispaniola (Dominican Republic and Haiti). It inhabits dry to moist forests, forest edges, scrublands, plantations, and gardens. The species adapts well to second growth and semi-open habitats, often using perches along clearings and roadsides. It is generally absent only from dense, closed-canopy interior forest.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1800 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A resident tyrant flycatcher of Jamaica and Hispaniola, it often perches conspicuously before sallying out to snatch insects. It nests in natural cavities, old woodpecker holes, or crevices in trees and buildings. The rich rufous in the tail and wing edges helps distinguish it from similar Myiarchus flycatchers.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats; makes quick sallies from exposed perches
Social Behavior
Usually encountered singly or in pairs that defend year-round territories. Pairs nest in tree cavities or holes in human structures, lining the nest with plant fibers and other soft materials. Young are fed primarily insects and fledge into nearby understory or edge vegetation.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Gives sharp, whistled phrases and burry 'wheep' or 'peer' notes, often delivered from a prominent perch. The song is simple but carries far, with repeated, slightly descending whistles.
Plumage
Olive-brown upperparts with a gray-tinged head and breast, grading to a pale yellow belly; wings and tail show warm rufous edging. Feathers are smooth, with two pale wing bars and a slightly crested crown.
Diet
Primarily hunts flying insects such as beetles, wasps, flies, and moths, taken in mid-air or snapped from foliage. Also gleans spiders and other arthropods from leaves and branches. Will occasionally supplement with small berries and other soft fruits, especially outside peak insect abundance.
Preferred Environment
Forages from mid-level to canopy-height perches at forest edges, in second growth, and in open woodlands. Frequently uses fence lines, isolated trees, and garden perches to launch short sallies.
