Birdsong field guide
Variegated Flycatcher
Empidonomus varius
A medium-sized tyrant flycatcher recognized for its heavily streaked brown-and-white plumage and its strong resemblance to the larger Streaked Flycatcher.
What it sounds like
A thin, high-pitched, and often repeated 'tsee-ee' or 'pseee' whistle.
Reference call, compare with what you heard
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Field notes
- It is a highly migratory austral species, breeding in southern South America and traveling as far north as the Amazon and Caribbean coast for the winter.
- The species possesses a concealed yellow or orange-red crown stripe that is typically only visible during aggressive or courtship displays.
- It is distinguished from the similar Streaked Flycatcher by its smaller bill, darker ear coverts, and less extensive rufous coloring in the tail.
- While primarily an aerial insectivore that 'sallies' for prey, it is known to consume significant amounts of small fruit, particularly during the non-breeding season.
- It is a legendary vagrant in North America, with rare individuals overshooting their migratory path to appear as far north as Ontario and Maine.
Habitat
Open woodlands, forest edges, riverine forests, and savanna-like habitats with scattered trees.
Range
Widespread throughout South America east of the Andes, including Argentina, Brazil, and northern countries.
Similar & commonly confused birds
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