From Opus

Tyrannus forficatus

Photo by Damselfly
Location: Texas.

Photo by raulroa
Location: Irwindale, California (where a rare visitor).

[edit] Identification

Pale grey, white on the face and breast. Black wings, tail black and white, scarlet crown patch, the flanks and belly are flushed salmon pink, which can vary in brightness. Body is similar in size and morph to Western Kingbird, but the white head and especially very long black-and-white tail are distinctive. Length 26cm. as juvenile, but reaches 38cm. as tail grows into adult status; tails of females ~ 30% shorter.

[edit] Distribution

In summer in USA and north-east Mexico, wintering from south-east Mexico to Panama. In the US, the state of Texas is the best place to see Tyrannus forficatus. Ranges extends over Oklahoma and Nebraska, and slightly into SE New Mexico.

[edit] Taxonomy

This is a monotypic species¹.

[edit] Habitat

Open areas with scattered brush.

[edit] Behaviour

Forage close to ground; often seen on fence wires.

[edit] References

1. Clements, James F. 2007. The Clements Checklist of Birds of the World. 6th ed., with updates to October 2007. Ithaca: Cornell University Press. ISBN 9780801445019

[edit] External Links