The sulphur-bellied flycatcher is a large member of the family Tyrannidae, the tyrant flycatchers. It is regularly found from southern Arizona in the United States south to Bolivia and occurs casually or as a vagrant further north, east, and south of its usual range.
Region
Southwestern United States, Mesoamerica, and northern South America
Typical Environment
Breeds locally from southern Arizona south through the highlands of Mexico and Central America, and winters mainly in the Andean foothills and adjacent lowlands from Colombia to Bolivia. Prefers mature riparian woodlands, pine–oak and montane forests, and forest edges with tall emergent trees. In Arizona it is strongly associated with sycamore-lined canyons. During migration it uses semi-open woodlands and clearings with scattered trees. Typically forages in the mid- to upper canopy.
Altitude Range
600–2500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This boldly streaked tyrant flycatcher nests in natural cavities or old woodpecker holes, especially in sycamores in the U.S. Southwest. It performs conspicuous flycatching sallies from high, exposed perches and often pumps its tail when perched. Although scarce in the U.S., it is widespread from Mexico southward and occasionally turns up far outside its normal range.
Temperament
alert and moderately wary
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with frequent sallies from high perches; strong, direct flight between trees
Social Behavior
Usually solitary or in pairs during the breeding season; defends a territory centered on prime perches. Nests in tree cavities, often reusing old woodpecker holes, and the female performs most incubation while the male guards nearby. Outside the breeding season it may join loose mixed-species flocks at fruiting trees.
Migratory Pattern
Seasonal migrant
Song Description
Vocalizations are a series of sharp, squeaky whistles and burry chatters, often given from exposed perches. Common calls include a piercing, descending squeal and repeated squeaky phrases that carry well through canyons.
