The Scissor-tailed Flycatcher is an elegant and iconic bird of the southern Great Plains, famous for its extraordinarily long, forked tail. It is a highly distinctive and graceful aerial hunter.
Where to spot
Breeds in the south-central United States (especially Texas, Oklahoma) and northeastern Mexico. Winters from southern Mexico through Central America to Costa Rica. Found in open grasslands, savannas, agricultural fields, and towns with scattered trees.
How to spot
Look for its impossibly long, deeply forked black and white tail, which can be twice the length of its body. Its body plumage is pale grey with salmon-pink flanks and underwing linings. Often perches on wires or fences.
When to spot
Most easily observed during the breeding season (spring and summer) in its northern range. Seen during spring and fall migration across Mexico and Central America.
Where to spot
Breeds in the south-central United States (especially Texas, Oklahoma) and northeastern Mexico. Winters from southern Mexico through Central America to Costa Rica. Found in open grasslands, savannas, agricultural fields, and towns with scattered trees.
How to spot
Look for its impossibly long, deeply forked black and white tail, which can be twice the length of its body. Its body plumage is pale grey with salmon-pink flanks and underwing linings. Often perches on wires or fences.
When to spot
Most easily observed during the breeding season (spring and summer) in its northern range. Seen during spring and fall migration across Mexico and Central America.
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
During courtship displays, the male Scissor-tailed Flycatcher performs spectacular aerial dives and twists, showcasing its long tail feathers.
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