2016 Bonanza Bird #1: Scissor-tailed Flycatcher

Birdorable Scissor-tailed Flychatcher

It's time for our 2016 Birdorable Bonanza! This time we are commemorating the 10 year anniversary of Birdorable with a 10-bird celebration.

Today's new bird is the Scissor-tailed Flycatcher, a beautiful species in the kingbird genus and the tyrant flycatcher family. These beauties breed in south central parts of the United States and migrate down into Central America for the winter.

Male and female Scissor-tailed Flycatchers have similar plumage: greyish upperparts, light underparts with salmon or pink flanks, and black and white feathers on their extremely long tails. Males have longer tails in general -- up to 30% longer than typical females.

Scissor-tailed Flycatchers feed on a variety of insects which they hunt in a hawking fashion (flying out to capture prey discovered while waiting on a perch). Their long tails make them agile in flight, able to make quick turns and drops in pursuit of prey.

Tomorrow's new bird is the largest in a family known for their unique plumage and remarkable courtship rituals. Can you guess what species it is?

Comments

Louise Warner on March 17, 2017 at 8:18 PM wrote:
greater bird -of-paradise?
Spurwing Plover on March 19, 2017 at 12:15 AM wrote:
The scissor tailed flycatcher the state bird of OKLAHOMA and close reletive of the Kingbirds
Harpy Eagle on July 4, 2017 at 9:20 AM wrote:
Do U guys have the Fork- tailed flycatcher? And I would ❤️ it if you could have some tropicbirds! 🦅
Harpy Eagle on July 4, 2017 at 9:22 AM wrote:
Hello? Anyone 🏠?
Spurwing Plover on November 13, 2019 at 7:56 AM wrote:
Scissor tail Flycatcher the state bird of Oklahoma and can be found on the back of the Oklahoma Sate Quarter
Spurwing Plover on June 15, 2022 at 11:41 PM wrote:
I understand that the Male puts on a spectacular Fight Display to attacks a mate

Leave a comment

Comments with links or HTML will be deleted. Your comment will be published pending approval.
Your email address will not be published
You can unsubscribe from these communications at any time. For more information on how to unsubscribe, our privacy practices, and how we are committed to protecting and respecting your privacy, please review our Privacy Policy. By clicking submit below, you consent to allow Birdorable to store and process the personal information submitted above to provide you the content requested.

Spotlight on the Elegant Trogon: Nature's Colorful Masterpiece

Today we are concluding our 2022 Birdorable Bonanza by adding a colorful bird of the New World: the Elegant Trogon! Elegant Trogons are native to a wide range across Mexico and Central America, where they reside in a variety...

The Pied Crow: A Striking and Clever African Corvid

The Pied Crow is a fascinating and adaptable bird native to sub-Saharan Africa and Madagascar. With its striking black-and-white plumage and intelligent behavior, this bird is one of the most recognizable members of the crow family. Whether you're interested in corvids for their smarts...

Busting a Bird Myth: Penguins Only Live in Cold, Icy Climates

Penguins are often associated with icy landscapes and freezing temperatures, but the idea that they only live in cold climates is a common misconception. While some penguins thrive in frigid regions like Antarctica, many species are perfectly adapted to warmer environments. Of the 18 recognized penguin species,...

New Happy Thanksgiving Shareable Graphic from Birdorable

We’re feeling extra thankful today, and we’re sharing the bird love with this festive Birdorable graphic! This cute Thanksgiving-themed image features a Birdorable Wild Turkey, along with many other birds found in the United States, wishing everyone a "Happy Thanksgiving Day." It's perfect for sharing with your fellow bird enthusiasts, friends, and family.