The vermilion flycatcher is a small passerine bird in the tyrant flycatcher family found throughout South America and southern North America. It is a striking exception among the generally drab Tyrannidae due to its vermilion-red coloration. The males have bright red crowns, chests, and underparts, with brownish wings and tails. Females lack the vivid red coloration and can be hard to identify—they may be confused for Say's phoebe. The vermilion flycatcher's song is a pit pit pit pidddrrrreeedrr, which is variable and important in establishing a territory. Riparian habitats and semi-open environments are preferred. As aerial insectivores, they catch their prey while flying. Their several months-long molt begins in summer.
Region
Neotropics
Typical Environment
Occurs from the southwestern United States through Mexico and Central America into much of South America, reaching as far as Argentina and Chile. Prefers semi-open and open habitats with scattered trees, especially riparian zones, savannas, scrub, and agricultural edges. Frequently uses fences, posts, and low branches as hunting perches. Tolerates parks and urban green spaces if open foraging areas and perches are present.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 2500 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Male vermilion flycatchers get their brilliant red from carotenoid pigments derived from their insect-rich diet. They often hunt by making short sallies from exposed perches, returning to the same spot repeatedly. Despite their vivid color, they can thrive in human-modified landscapes like ranchlands and city parks if scattered trees and open spaces are available.
Museum specimen from 1890
Female P. o. mexicanus, San Augustin Etla, Oaxaca, Mexico
Male in Bosque Protector Jerusalem, Ecuador
In flight, showing off the flight feathers
Male on an ocotillo in Arizona
Nest with thumb for size comparison
With freshly caught insect prey in Texas
Temperament
territorial yet conspicuous
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with quick aerial sallies
Social Behavior
Typically seen singly or in pairs on exposed perches. Pairs are seasonally monogamous; the female builds a small cup nest in a fork or horizontal branch. Both parents feed nestlings; males perform display flights and song to defend territories.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
Song and call are a sharp, repeated pit pit pit followed by a trilled pidddrrrreeedrr; males often sing from elevated perches. Vocalizations are used to advertise territory and during courtship, with more frequent singing at dawn.
