Willow Flycatcher

Empidonax traillii

The Willow Flycatcher and the Alder Flycatcher were considered one species, the "Traill's Flycatcher", until the 1970's.  Virtually identical in looks, they are only safely distinguished from each other by their different voices.  Their ranges are quite different in summer, however, with the Alder Flycatcher found primarily in Canada and Alaska, while most Willow Flycatchers are found in the lower 48 states. 

Habitat: Breeds in thickets and small trees, especially near water, but also along woodland edges and brushy fields. 

Diet: Primarily insects and spiders.  Will also occasionally eat berries, and possibly seeds.

Behavior: Forages in typical flycatcher fashion, observing from a perch and flying out to catch passing insects. In addition to catching insects in mid-air, they also glean insects from foliage while hovering.

Nesting: June and July

Breeding Map: Breeding Bird Survey map

Song: Willow Flycatcher song

Migration: Summers throughout much of the United States in varying numbers. Winters in South America.

Similar Species: Alder Flycatcher, Acadian Flycatcher

Status: Has declined locally where streamside habitat has been lost.  A race that breeds along streams in the Southwest is endangered.

Further Information: 1) Patuxent Bird Identification InfoCenter, Willow Flycatcher

2) Cornell Lab of Ornithology - Willow Flycatcher

3) eNature.com: Willow Flycatcher

Photo Information: August 1st, 2003 -- Medicine Knoll Creek in Hughes County -- Doug Backlund

Additional Photos: Click on the image chips or text links below for additional, higher-resolution Willow Flycatcher photos.