The Willow Flycatcher is a small, plain flycatcher that is nearly identical visually to the Alder Flycatcher. Its distinctive, sneezy 'fitz-bew' call is crucial for identification.
Where to spot
Breeds in willow thickets, riparian zones, and other brushy, often wet, habitats across temperate North America. Winters in Mexico and Central and South America.
How to spot
Listen for its characteristic, whistled 'fitz-bew' song. Look for it in dense willow or alder thickets, where it often perches low and catches insects in flight.
When to spot
Breeding: late spring to early summer in North America. Migration: spring (May-June) and fall (August-September). Wintering: fall through spring in the Neotropics.
Where to spot
Breeds in willow thickets, riparian zones, and other brushy, often wet, habitats across temperate North America. Winters in Mexico and Central and South America.
How to spot
Listen for its characteristic, whistled 'fitz-bew' song. Look for it in dense willow or alder thickets, where it often perches low and catches insects in flight.
When to spot
Breeding: late spring to early summer in North America. Migration: spring (May-June) and fall (August-September). Wintering: fall through spring in the Neotropics.
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Like its Alder counterpart, its specific identification by call highlights the importance of vocalizations in birdwatching, especially for visually similar species.
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