Western Kingbird
A species of Kingbirds Scientific name : Tyrannus verticalis Genus : Kingbirds
Western Kingbird, A species of Kingbirds
Botanical name: Tyrannus verticalis
Genus: Kingbirds
Content
Description General Info
Description
The Arkansaskoningiran (Tyrannus verticalis) is a songbird of the Tyrannidae family (Tyrants).
Size
22 cm (8.75 in)
Life Expectancy
6-7 years
Nest Placement
Tree
Clutch Size
2 - 7 eggs
Incubation Period
1 - 2 broods
Number of Broods
12 - 19 days
Nestling Period
13 - 19 days
Feeding Habits
Western Kingbird, insectivorous birds, perform acrobatic aerial maneuvers to catch flying insects and occasionally feed on terrestrial prey and glean from vegetation. They consume small prey including bees, wasps, grasshoppers, beetles, moths, butterflies, caterpillars, flies, bugs, spiders, and sometimes fruits.
Habitat
Western Kingbird's habitat encompasses semi-open environments including farmlands, suburban areas, and the peripheries of small towns. These birds prefer a mix of open spaces for foraging, bordered by trees and shrubs suitable for perching and nesting, particularly cottonwoods and sycamores. Typically found at lower elevations, they breed under 7,000 feet and winter in Mexico and Central America's woodlands and grasslands.
Nest Behavior
The female western Kingbird exclusively constructs the nest. Timing for nest building and egg-laying is spring to summer. Both parents partake in caring for the eggs and feeding the young once hatched.
Nest Characteristics
Western Kingbird's nest is a bulky, open cup built in tree crotches or on human-made structures. It's composed of grass stems, rootlets, twigs, bark, and fibers, plus an inner layer of soft materials. The exterior measures approximately 6 inches across and 4 inches deep, with an inner cup diameter of about 3 inches.
Dite type
Insectivorous
General Info
Feeding Habits
Bird food type
Bird Feeder Type
Platform
Behavior
Western Kingbird exhibit territorial behaviors, particularly during mating season, with pairs defending a nesting area aggressively against intruders and predators using calls, bill snapping, and displaying hidden crown feathers. After monogamous pairing, both parents contribute to territory defense and nurturing their offspring post-fledging. Outside of breeding, they lead a solitary existence, typically not tolerating other bird species within their vicinity, barring certain communal nesting exceptions.
Species Status
Not globally threatened.
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Birds Order
Perching birds Family
Tyrant flycatchers Genus
Kingbirds Species
Western Kingbird 
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