The black phoebe (Sayornis nigricans) is a captivating passerine bird in the tyrant-flycatcher family. It is found from southwest Oregon to California and extends through Central and South America. This bird also calls Arizona home. Known for its striking plumage and distinctive song, the black phoebe is a year-round resident in most of its range.
Quick Facts About the Black Phoebe
- Scientific Name: Sayornis nigricans
- Family: Tyrannidae
- Common Regions: Southwest United States, including Arizona; Central and South America
- Diet: Primarily insectivorous
Subspecies Details (Taxonomy)
The black phoebe has six recognized subspecies:
- S. n. semiatra – Found from the Southwest U.S. to western Mexico, including Baja California.
- S. n. nigricans – Native to northeast, central, and southern Mexico.
- S. n. aquatica – Ranges from Chiapas, Mexico through Nicaragua.
- S.n amnicola – Inhabits Costa Rica to Panama.
- & 6. S.n angustirostris & S.n latirostris – Found in eastern Panama south through Bolivia; sometimes considered separate species.
Size
The black phoebe measures approximately 16 cm (6.3 inches) in length with a weight ranging between 15 to 22 grams (0.5 to 0.8 ounces).
Appearance and Features
Black phoebes are medium-sized flycatchers with predominantly black plumage contrasted by a white belly and undertail coverts forming an inverted “V. Juveniles exhibit browner feathers with cinnamon-brown tips on their body and brown wing-bars.
Both sexes share similar plumage; however, males are often more vocal than females.
Where the Bird Lives
In Arizona, the black phoebe can be found along river valleys, coastal cliffs, park fountains, and other water-adjacent habitats.
Habitat
This bird thrives near water bodies such as riversides, lakeshores, coastal cliffs or even urban parks with fountains that provide essential mud for nest building.
Diet and Eating Habits
Primarily insectivorous, they perch patiently before catching prey mid-air using swift flight maneuvers.
Migration Habits
Unlike other birds in its genus that migrate extensively, the black phoebe is mostly sedentary but northern populations may exhibit partial migratory behavior.
Conservation Status & Threats
Classified as Least Concern by IUCN Red List due to its widespread range and stable population numbers.
