The white-throated flycatcher is a species of bird in the family Tyrannidae, the tyrant flycatchers. It is found in Mexico and every country in Central America.
Region
Mexico and Central America
Typical Environment
Occurs from Mexico south through every country in Central America, mainly in moist lowlands and foothills with extensive wetlands or wet thickets. Prefers marshes, cattail stands, sedge beds, and shrubby edges along streams, ponds, and lagoons. It also uses riparian scrub, second-growth with persistent moisture, and the margins of humid forests. Within these habitats it keeps close to dense cover, often perching a meter or two above the ground. Local movements may track water availability during dry seasons.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 2500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This small tyrant flycatcher favors wet thickets and marshy edges, where it keeps low and often remains concealed. Its clear white throat and strong eye ring help separate it from other similar Empidonax flycatchers. It typically forages by sallying out from low perches to snatch insects in midair or by gleaning from foliage. Its voice is subtle and best learned in the field, as visual identification can be challenging.
Temperament
skulking and cautious
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with quick sallies from low perches
Social Behavior
Usually solitary or in pairs, especially during the breeding season. Nests are cup-shaped and placed low in dense vegetation near water. Both parents are believed to participate in feeding the young. Territories are defended with quiet chases and vocalizations.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are soft and high-pitched, including thin tseet calls and brief buzzy phrases. The song is unobtrusive and can be difficult to detect amid wetland ambient noise. Calls are often given from within cover.
