Height: 7- 8 in.
Wingspan: 12-13in.
Weight: 1 - 2 oz.
Lifespan: up to 11 years
The Ash-throated Flycatcher (Myiarchus cinerascens) is a small, insect-eating bird that is found in the western parts of North America. This bird is known for its distinctive ash-gray throat and chest, as well as its striking yellow-olive plumage. Here's everything you need to know about the Ash-throated Flycatcher.
Habitat and Distribution
Ash-throated Flycatchers are primarily found in the western parts of North America, ranging from the southwestern United States to Mexico. They prefer to live in dry, open habitats such as deserts, grasslands, and scrublands. They can also be found in wooded areas, especially near streams and rivers.
Identification
The Ash-throated Flycatcher is a small bird, measuring about 7 inches in length. It has a relatively large head, a long tail, and a sturdy, hooked bill. Its wings are rounded and its legs are relatively short. The bird's plumage is yellow-olive, with a distinctive ash-gray throat and chest. The wings and tail are brownish-gray, and the belly is a pale yellow.
Behavior:
Ash-throated Flycatchers are solitary birds, and they are often seen perched on exposed branches or wires, scanning the area for insects. They use their keen eyesight to spot prey and then swoop down to catch it in mid-air. They are also known for their distinctive call, which is a high-pitched "wheep" or "weer."
Breeding
Ash-throated Flycatchers typically breed in the spring and summer months, building their nests in tree cavities, abandoned woodpecker holes, or nest boxes. The female lays 3-5 eggs, which are incubated for about 14 days. Both parents take turns feeding the chicks, which fledge after about 17 days.
Conservation
The Ash-throated Flycatcher is not currently considered threatened or endangered, but its populations have been impacted by habitat loss and fragmentation. These birds are particularly vulnerable to habitat destruction in arid regions, where their natural habitats are being converted to agriculture and urban development.
The Ash-throated Flycatcher is a fascinating and beautiful bird that is an important part of the ecosystem in the western parts of North America. While it is not currently threatened or endangered, it is important that we continue to work to protect its habitat and ensure that this species continues to thrive in the years to come.
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