The Yucatan flycatcher is a species of bird in the family Tyrannidae, the tyrant flycatchers. It is found in Belize, Guatemala and Mexico.
Region
Yucatán Peninsula and adjacent northern Central America
Typical Environment
Occurs across Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula (Yucatán, Campeche, Quintana Roo) and into northern Belize and northern Guatemala (Petén). It favors dry tropical and semi-deciduous forests, thorn scrub, and open woodland with scattered trees. Frequently uses forest edges, second growth, ranchlands with trees, and clearings near water. It can be found in parks and large gardens where mature trees provide cavities. Mangrove edges and coastal scrub are used locally where available.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 600 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The Yucatan flycatcher is a Myiarchus tyrant flycatcher best known for its rufous-tinged tail and brisk sallying flights from exposed perches. It closely resembles other Myiarchus species, but its voice and range help separate it. It nests in tree cavities, often using old woodpecker holes or natural hollows. Its sharp, whistled calls are a reliable field clue in the dry forests of the Yucatán Peninsula.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with quick sallies from perches
Social Behavior
Usually seen alone or in pairs, defending small territories, especially in the breeding season. Nests in natural cavities or abandoned woodpecker holes, lining them with plant fibers and other soft materials. Pairs communicate with sharp calls and duets to maintain territory. Post-breeding, it may join loose mixed flocks at edges but remains largely independent.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Gives sharp, whistled notes and short phrases, often a piercing wheep or whee-dit that carries well. Calls are emphatic and slightly descending, useful for separating it from similar Myiarchus species. Vocalizations increase at dawn and dusk.
Plumage
Olive-brown upperparts with pale gray face and breast, grading to a yellow belly; wings and tail show distinct rufous edging. Two faint pale wingbars may be present, and the throat is whitish to light gray. Feathers are sleek with minimal spotting, typical of Myiarchus flycatchers.
Diet
Primarily hunts flying insects such as beetles, flies, and wasps, captured in short aerial sallies from exposed perches. Also gleans spiders and caterpillars from foliage and bark. Occasionally takes small fruits and berries, especially in the dry season when insects are less abundant.
Preferred Environment
Forages along forest edges, open woodland, and scrub with scattered trees that provide lookout perches. Often hunts from mid-canopy perches, moving to lower levels in edges and clearings. Will use human-modified habitats with suitable tree cover.
