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Ash-Throated vs Brown-Crested Flycatcher: How to Tell Them Apart?

Ash-Throated vs Brown-Crested Flycatcher: How to Tell Them Apart?Source: bing.com

If you are an avid birdwatcher, you know that distinguishing between two similar-looking species can be a tricky task. The Ash-Throated and Brown-Crested Flycatchers, both commonly found in the southwestern United States, are a perfect example of this. While they share many physical characteristics, there are a few subtle differences that can help you tell them apart. In this article, we will discuss these differences and provide you with some helpful tips for identifying these two flycatchers.

Physical Characteristics

Brown-Crested FlycatcherSource: bing.com

Both Ash-Throated and Brown-Crested Flycatchers are medium-sized birds, measuring around 7-8 inches in length. They have an olive-green back and a pale belly. However, the Ash-Throated Flycatcher has a pale greyish-brown head and neck, while the Brown-Crested Flycatcher has a distinctive rusty-brown crest on its head. The Ash-Throated Flycatcher also has a pale eye-ring, while the Brown-Crested Flycatcher has a dark eye-ring that extends behind the eye.

Habitat

Ash-Throated Flycatcher HabitatSource: bing.com

The Ash-Throated and Brown-Crested Flycatchers have similar habitat preferences, but they do have some differences in their distribution. The Ash-Throated Flycatcher is more common in dry, open woodlands, while the Brown-Crested Flycatcher prefers riparian habitats near streams and rivers. The Ash-Throated Flycatcher is also found at higher elevations than the Brown-Crested Flycatcher.

Vocalizations

Brown-Crested Flycatcher VocalizationSource: bing.com

One of the best ways to identify these two flycatchers is by their vocalizations. The Ash-Throated Flycatcher has a distinctive call that sounds like “fitz-bew,” while the Brown-Crested Flycatcher has a harsh, raspy call that sounds like “wheep.” The Brown-Crested Flycatcher also has a unique song that sounds like “wee-urr,” while the Ash-Throated Flycatcher has a more simple song that sounds like “pit-pit-pit.”

Behavior

Ash-Throated Flycatcher BehaviorSource: bing.com

The Ash-Throated and Brown-Crested Flycatchers have similar foraging behavior, but there are a few differences to look out for. The Ash-Throated Flycatcher tends to perch on exposed branches or fence posts to scan for insects, while the Brown-Crested Flycatcher prefers to forage in mid-air, catching insects in flight. The Ash-Throated Flycatcher also has a habit of flicking its tail up and down, while the Brown-Crested Flycatcher has a habit of flicking its wings and tail.

Migration

Ash-Throated Flycatcher MigrationSource: bing.com

The Ash-Throated and Brown-Crested Flycatchers have different migration patterns. The Ash-Throated Flycatcher is a partial migrant, meaning that some individuals migrate to Mexico or Central America for the winter, while others remain in their breeding range. The Brown-Crested Flycatcher, on the other hand, is a full migrant, meaning that all individuals migrate to Mexico or Central America for the winter.

Conclusion

Distinguishing between the Ash-Throated and Brown-Crested Flycatchers can be challenging, but with careful observation and attention to detail, it is possible to tell them apart. Pay attention to their physical characteristics, habitat preferences, vocalizations, behavior, and migration patterns to identify these two flycatchers. Happy birdwatching!

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