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Endangered Species

Endangered Species

Southwestern Willow Flycatcher


Southwestern Willow Flycatcher

Scientific Name: Empidonax traillii extimus

Status: E, CH

A small diurnal bird, the flycatcher is distinguishable by its brownish-olive upperparts, a whitish throat that contrasts with the pale olive breast, a pale yellow belly, and two light wing bars; generally lacks a conspicuous eye ring; as in other flycatchers, the bill is depressed and wide at the base (NGS 1983).

It eats mainly insects caught in flight, sometimes gleans insects from foliage; occasionally eats berries. In breeding range, forages within and occasionally above dense riparian vegetation.

Nesting occurs usually from early June through the end of July, peak in mid-June; sometimes may lay eggs as early as late May and typically raises one brood per year.

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