Pacific-slope Flycatcher

14 cm (5.5 in)

6 years

Pacific-slope Flycatcher predominantly consumes flying insects caught mid-flight or gleaned from vegetation, including beetles, flies, moths, and caterpillars. They also feed on spiders and berries, hunting from tree interiors and sallying beneath canopies. Their feeding behavior includes perching and chasing flying prey, and they help control insect populations, particularly mosquitoes.

Pacific-slope Flycatcher generally resides in both coniferous and deciduous woodlands, often characterized by proximity to water and semi-open canopies. Preferred environments span altitudinal ranges from lowlands to montane forests, accommodating mixed-growth stages including second-growth and old-growth habitats. Common in areas with dense understory, this species selects for diverse vegetative areas, encompassing trees such as Douglas fir, redwood, sugar pine, big-leaf maple, and various oaks. The understory often features alder, willow, and currant. Pacific-slope Flycatcher is typically found in ravines and canyons, sometimes nesting on the ground, and favors shaded locales during both breeding and migration.

The female pacific-slope Flycatcher builds the nest, lines it with grass and hair, and may lay eggs using materials such as paper or yarn. Pacific-slope Flycatcher demonstrates attentive parental care, although specifics of egg-laying patterns and care for young require further elaboration.

Pacific-slope Flycatcher's nest is often situated in trees, shrubs, cavities, banks, overturned tree roots, or man-made structures. It is supported from below and the side. The elaborate cup nest is constructed by the female, who uses spiderweb, bark, leaves, grass, moss, lichen, and sometimes man-made items for disguise and comfort, measuring 4.7 inches wide.