Apical Flycatcher illustration
Birdsong field guide

Apical Flycatcher

Myiarchus apicalis

The Apical Flycatcher is a medium-sized tyrant flycatcher endemic to Colombia, distinguished from its congeners by prominent white tips on its tail feathers.

What it sounds like

A series of mournful, rising whistles described as 'weee-it' or a rolling 'pree-errr'.

Reference call, compare with what you heard
0:00 / 0:39
Rec. Julio Delgado · ColombiaCC BY-NC-SAXeno-canto

Field notes

  • It is the only member of the genus Myiarchus that is entirely endemic to Colombia.
  • Its specific name, 'apicalis', refers to the conspicuous white apical spots on the tips of all its rectrices.
  • As a secondary cavity nester, it typically builds its nest in old woodpecker holes or natural tree hollows.
  • It is highly adaptable and can be found in human-modified landscapes such as shaded coffee plantations and gardens.
  • While it primarily sally-gleans for insects, it is known to consume more fruit than many other flycatcher species.
Habitat
Arid scrub, tropical deciduous forest, and semi-open woodland.
Range
Inter-Andean valleys of Colombia, specifically the Cauca and Magdalena valleys.

Similar & commonly confused birds

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