Bird Gallery Index

Black Phoebe image © Bill Duke

Family: (Tyrannidae) Tyrant Flycatchers

Preferred Habitat: Woodlands close to water.

Seasonal Occurrence: Rare in winter.

Notes: The Black Phoebe is common in southwest Texas; it is a rare visitor to our area in winter. It may be distinguished from the much more common Eastern Phoebe by its darker charcoal gray coloring which extends down the throat onto the breast. Like other phoebes, when perched on a branch it pumps its tail up and down. It is almost always found close to water and may be attracted to gardens by water features such as ponds and bird baths.
- Susan Billetdeaux