Range Map

Description: The beautiful Scissor-Tailed Flycatcher is mostly light gray with black wings and white wing bars. There is also a small red patch of feathers on the shoulder. The underparts are white and the abdomen appears as if it has been washed with pink. The most recognizable feature of the bird is the long, scissor-like black tail that may extend eight inches on its own. Females and males are similar, but the female has a shorter tail. In all, the Scissor-Tailed Flycatcher measures 13 inches in length.

Range: The Scissor-Tailed Flycatcher breeds in the southern plains. Breeding populations exist throughout Texas, Oklahoma and Kansas; as well as in western parts of Louisiana, Arkansas, and Missouri. Some birds may breed as far north as southern Nebraska and as far west as southeastern Colorado.

Habitat: The Scissor-Tailed Flycatcher prefers open grasslands with scattered threes and shrubs. It will often nest in suburban areas.

Diet: The Scissor-Tailed Flycatcher feeds on insects such as grasshoppers and crickets.

Nesting: Females lay 3-6 eggs in an open cup nest. Nests are usually located in a small tree or large shrub. Nest material may include just about anything including cloth, paper, and paper.

Scissor-tailed Flycatcher Video