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Eastern Kingbird (Tyrannus tyrannus)

Photo Credit: Charles H. Warren

Length: 7-9 in.
Habitat: agricultural areas and streams

The Eastern Kingbird belongs to the Flycatcher Family. These birds are the bane of flying insects. They're fast and agile in the air. All of the more than three dozen species in this big family share the same style of feeding: perch, pursuit; perch, pursuit. The Eastern Kingbird perches in an exposed location, for example, the very top of a tree or on a fence.

Although most flycatchers have unexciting songs, the kingbird's one is a real attention grabber, with sharp whistles and whoops.

The Eastern Kingbird is easily told from other similar kingbirds by its white terminal tail band and black and white plumage. The breeding season begins in early May, peaks from late May to mid-June, and extends into mid-July. The Eastern Kingbird occurs in most of the United States except the western coastal states and the Southwest. It winters in northern South America.