great crested flycatcher

1. Bird Name:
The bird being profiled in this article is the Great Crested Flycatcher. Its scientific name is Myiarchus crinitus.

2. Appearance:
The Great Crested Flycatcher is an impressive bird with a unique combination of colors. The head and upper body of the bird are mostly olive-green, with pale yellow underparts. The throat and chest are grey while the tail has long, rufous feathers. It displays a prominent crest on its head from which it derives its name. The bird has a strong, thick bill ideal for its insectivorous diet. The eyes are dark with a piercing gaze. Males and females look quite similar, with no prominent sexual dimorphism in coloration.

3. Size:
Adult Great Crested Flycatchers have an average length range of 18-23 cm (7.1 – 9.1 inches). The wingspan varies from 10-14 inches, and the weight typically lies between 27-40 grams.

4. Habitat & Distribution:
Great Crested Flycatchers can be found across much of North America, all the way from Canada to as far south as Central America. They migrate to the Eastern and Central United States and into Canada for the breeding season. These birds prefer to inhabit deciduous forests and woodlands, though they can also be present in mixed wooded areas, orchards, and parks.

5. Interesting Facts:
One of the unique behaviors displayed by Great Crested Flycatchers is their nesting style. They line their nests with snakeskin, which is believed to deter predators and parasites. Another interesting fact about these fascinating birds is that they are one of the few flycatcher species that nest in cavities. Lastly, unlike many birds, the Great Crested Flycatchers are not species-specific in their diet and show a wide variety when it comes to choosing their meal.

6. Diet:
In addition to their namesake diet of flying insects, their diet includes spiders, berries, and fruits. Occasionally, they can also prey on small lizards or tree frogs.

7. Behavior & Sounds:
Great Crested Flycatchers are solitary birds, primarily keeping to themselves outside the breeding season. Their call is distinctive, typically a series of ‘wheep’ sounds that are high-pitched and loud, serving as territory markers.

8. Conservation Status:
According to the IUCN Red List, the Great Crested Flycatcher is classified as being of “Least Concern”. They are not currently believed to be experiencing any significant decline in their population.

9. Lifespan:
A Great Crested Flycatcher typically lives for about 5 years in the wild. Their lifespan in captivity is not well documented, primarily because they aren’t commonly kept as pets or in aviaries.

10. Additional Notes:
In Spanish, the Great Crested Flycatcher is often referred to as “copetón ventrirrufo”. They don’t usually interact much with humans unless their nest is threatened – in such a case, they put up a loud and aggressive display. Their role in ecosystems is significant as they help control insect populations in their habitat. Despite being a fairly common bird, its reclusive nature and preference for the high canopy makes it difficult to spot, making any sighting a thrilling experience for bird watchers.