Family: Tyrannidae, Tyrant Flycatchers view all from this family

Description 8-9" (20-23 cm). Blackish head, blue-black mantle and wings; black tail with white terminal band; white below. Red feathers in middle of crown usually concealed. Long crown feathers and upright posture give it a distinctive silhouette.

Habitat Savannas, rangelands, forest edges, riverside groves, and even city parks and roadsides.

Nesting 3-5 spotted white eggs in a large bulky nest consisting of heaps of twigs, straw, and twine lined with hair and rootlets; built on horizontal limb of a tree, often near water.

Range Breeds from British Columbia across interior Canada to Maritime Provinces and south to northern California, central Texas, Gulf Coast, and Florida. Winters in tropics.

Voice   A sharp dzee or dzeet. Also a series of harsh, rapid calls: kit and kitter.

Discussion The Eastern Kingbird perches on treetops, fences, and utility poles. When another bird flies into its territory--even one much larger than itself--it attacks fiercely, uttering a piercing cry. When one of a pair starts the battle, the other usually joins in. Its aggressive behavior has earned this bird its common name. In late summer and early fall they often flock, and large numbers pursue flying insects; they also feed on wild berries, which they deftly pluck while on the wing.