Vermilion Flycatcher (Pyrocephalus rubinus)

Vermilion Flycatcher (adult male) © Wayne Wendel

Family: (Tyrannidae) Tyrant Flycatchers

Preferred Habitat: Rural areas near streams and ponds.

Seasonal Occurrence: Common late-November through March. Scarce in summer. Breeds in our area.

Notes: The brilliant colored Vermilion Flycatcher is an exception to the predominantly muted gray colors of most U.S. flycatchers. Males are vivid red with black back and face mask. Females are mostly gray with blurred breast streaks. Vermilion Flycatchers are fairly easy to spot as they prefer to perch on low tree branches. Like phoebes, they often pump their tails when at rest. Males are famous for their spectacular courtship flight display. Vermilion Flycatchers are hard to find inside the Houston City Limits, but Bear Creek Park can be very productive in winter. They have also been winter residents at Arthur Storey Park. Brazos Bend State Park is generally a very reliable location.
- Susan Billetdeaux