Olive-sided Flycatcher

Contopus cooperi

OrderPasseriformes

FamilyTyrannidae

HabitatConiferous forest edges and burns; any tall snag in migration

SeasonSpring and fall migrant through Texas

LocationDevine Lake Park, Leander, Texas, Williamson County, Texas

Size7.1-7.9 inches

DietFlying insects caught in long sallies from high perches

ConservationNear Threatened (IUCN); steep long-term

CameraNikon Z9Lens800mmAperturef/6.3Shutter1/3200ISO125

Olive-sided Flycatcher commanding the tallest snag - Devine Lake Park.

About the Olive-sided Flycatcher

The Olive-sided Flycatcher is the general of the snag line: a big, bull-headed flycatcher that claims the tallest dead branch in sight and launches long aerial strikes at passing insects, almost always returning to the same commanding perch. Its dark vest over a white center gives the classic unbuttoned-jacket look.

Famous for the whistled song quick-THREE-BEERS, it breeds in northern and mountain conifer forests and passes through Texas in migration. It is also one of North America's fastest-declining songbirds, making every encounter feel a little more precious.

This bird was photographed at Devine Lake Park in Leander on spring migration, commanding the tallest snag over the pond.

Want to see an Olive-sided Flycatcher in the wild?
Join one of my guided birding tours! Fine art prints of my photos are also available.

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