Description: Measuring about eight inches in length, the Great Crested Flycatcher has a brownish head (which may or may not appear crested), a gray face and throat, yellow underparts, brown wings with a bright rufous patch, and an olive-colored back. Males and females are similar. Unlike most flycatchers, the Great Crested Flycatcher nests in natural tree cavities and man-made nesting boxes. Its nests are often lined with snakeskins to scare away potential predators. Usually, the Great Crested Flycatcher stays high in the treetops. Its familiar “weeeep” call is often heard before the bird is seen.

Diet: The Great Crested Flycatcher eats insects and occasionally fruit.

Range: The Great Crested Flycatcher breeds in the eastern and central United States and southeastern and south central Canada. It winters in Mexico, the Caribbean islands, Central America, and northwestern South America.

Habitat: Deciduous and mixed woodlands, orchards, wooded parks.

Status: The Great Crested Flycatcher is common.

Great Crested Flycatcher Video