Bird Identifier
Acadian Flycatcher
Empidonax virescens (Family: Tyrannidae)

Acadian Flycatcher

A small, olive-green flycatcher with a relatively large head, distinctive eye-ring, and a pale chest.

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Plumage & appearance

Adults have olive-green upperparts, a distinct whitish eye-ring, pale whitish underparts with a yellowish wash on the flanks and belly, and two whitish wing bars. The bill is dark above and yellowish below.

Ecological significance

As an insectivore, it plays a role in controlling insect populations. It is also an indicator species for healthy deciduous and mixed forests.

Conservation status

Least Concern (though populations may be declining in some areas due to habitat loss)

Observation tips

Listen for its characteristic 'pitts-sa' call. Look for it in the mid-story of mature deciduous or mixed forests, often near water, where it perches and sallies out to catch insects.