The Brown-crested Flycatcher (Myiarchus tyrannulus) is a medium-sized bird found in the southwestern United States and parts of Mexico. They measure about 8.5 inches in length and weigh around 1.4 ounces. Their distinctive field marks include a brownish-gray head and upper body, with a yellow belly and a bold rufous tail. They also have a thick bill, dark eyes, and a slight crest on their head.
Brown-crested Flycatchers can be found in a variety of habitats, including arid and semi-arid regions, such as deserts, scrublands, and oak woodlands. During the breeding season, they build cup-shaped nests out of grasses and other plant materials, which they attach to tree branches or other structures. They lay clutches of 2-5 eggs and both parents take turns incubating them.
In terms of migration, Brown-crested Flycatchers are primarily non-migratory, with some populations making local movements in response to changing environmental conditions. However, some individuals may move further north during the breeding season, with populations in the southern United States extending their range as far north as Oklahoma and Texas.
The Brown-crested Flycatcher is primarily insectivorous, feeding on a wide variety of insects, including flies, beetles, grasshoppers, and cicadas. They are often seen perched on tree branches or other elevated structures, from which they sally out to catch their prey in mid-air.
While Brown-crested Flycatchers are not considered threatened, they are vulnerable to habitat loss and degradation, particularly as a result of urbanization and agricultural development. Conservation efforts aimed at protecting their natural habitats can help ensure the continued survival of this beautiful and distinctive bird.