Western Kingbird

Western Kingbird

© Greg Lavaty

Tyrannus verticalis

Family: (Tyrannidae) Tyrant Flycatchers

Preferred Habitat: Rural, open country.

Seasonal Occurrence: Uncommon in summer; occasional other times of the year.

Notes by Susan Billetdeaux: Often easy to spot, Western Kingbirds commonly perch out in the open, on roadside wires or tree branches. They resemble the less common Couch's Kingbird. Best identification marks are their black tails which are narrowly outlined with white feathers. Their bellies are suffused with a yellowish wash; the throat and chest are pale gray.