Tyrannus tyrannus
Tyrannus (absolute ruler) is a fitting name for the Eastern Kingbird-no large bird is safe flying within the territory of this fearless tyrant. The Eastern Kingbird pursues large birds boldly, frequently pecking and plucking them until they no longer pose a threat, whether real or perceived. During the kingbird's courtship, its hidden red crown is flared to complement the white-tipped tail feathers. Like the flight of a butterfly, this bird flutters slowly-but noisily; it chatters continuously in courtship. Eastern Kingbirds rarely walk or hop on the ground. They prefer to fly, even for very short distances. The kingbird is known to bathe by flying low over water, so that its belly touches the surface. Once wet, the bird lands in a safe area to complete its bath. |
I.D.: Sexes similar: black upperparts; white underparts; white-tipped tail; black bill; small crest; thin orange-red crown; no eye ring; black legs. Size: L 81/2 in. (22 cm). Range: uncommon to locally common migrant and summer breeder throughout the Rockies. Habitat: open areas with willow and birch shrubs, agricultural areas and riparian regions in the foothills and the montane. Nesting: on a horizontal limb in a small tree or shrub; also in cavities and human-made structures; pair builds the cup nest with plant fibers, grass, roots, feathers and fur; female incubates 3-4 eggs for up to 14 days. Feeding: flycatches aerial insects; infrequently eats berries. Voice: call is a quick, loud, chattering kit-kit-kitter-kitter; also a buzzy dzee-dzee-dzee. Similar Species: Tree Swallow : lacks the black back and the white-tipped tail; more streamlined. |
