The scissor-tailed flycatcher is a striking bird with a deeply forked tail that is unmistakable in the field. If you are lucky enough to spot one, it likely signifies that you are observant, as these attractive birds are relatively uncommon in many areas.
Quick Facts
Here are some quick facts about the scissor-tailed flycatcher:
- Scientific name: Tyrannus forficatus
- Length: 13-15 inches
- Wingspan: 14 inches
- Weight: 2-3 ounces
- Lifespan: Up to 12 years in wild, over 20 years in captivity
- Diet: Insects, spiders, small lizards, frogs
- Range: Southern Great Plains, areas of Southwest and South
- Habitat: Open country with scattered perches like fence posts or small trees
Identification
The scissor-tailed flycatcher is named for its extraordinarily long, forked tail, which can measure up to 10 inches. The tail appears scissor-like when the bird is perched. Plumage is pale gray above and white below, with salmon pink flanks. The wings are dark gray-brown. The head is crested and relatively large in proportion to the body. The bird sits very upright when perched. In flight, the very long tail streaming out behind and white edges on the wings are distinctive.
Range and Habitat
Scissor-tailed flycatchers breed in the southern Great Plains from Texas to Kansas, and west to Colorado and eastern New Mexico. Their range extends east to the Mississippi River, and along the Gulf Coast into Florida. They winter in Mexico and parts of Central America. These birds inhabit open landscapes with scattered perching sites such as fence posts, utility lines, or isolated small trees. Habitats include agricultural fields, pastures, prairies, savannas, and desert grasslands.
Migration
Scissor-tailed flycatchers are long distance migrants, wintering in Mexico and Central America and flying north to breed in the springtime. They arrive on the breeding grounds between March and May. Fall migration occurs earlier than many other species, with the flycatchers leaving the breeding areas between late July and September. Peak fall passage occurs in August. The birds migrate during the day, traveling in loose flocks. They may migrate in the company of other tyrant flycatchers.
Breeding and Nesting
Scissor-tailed flycatchers breed between March and June after returning from their wintering grounds. They are solitary nesters, establishing large breeding territories up to 30 acres in size. Males perform elaborate aerial displays during courtship, plunging and rising erratically while calling loudly. The male will pick the nest site, often choosing an isolated tree, pole or other structure from 3 to 70 feet above ground. He will defend the area vigorously against intruders or passing birds of prey.
The nest is a compact cup assembled from grasses, weeds, moss, feathers, and other materials. It is lined with fine materials like hair or fine grass. The female lays 3-6 eggs, which are whitish with brown, gray, or lavender spots. She incubates the eggs for 13-15 days while being fed by the male. The young fledge 14-17 days after hatching. The male continues tending to them for another 3-4 weeks as they become independent.
Diet
Scissor-tailed flycatchers are insectivores, feeding on insects, spiders, and other small arthropods. They will also occasionally eat small lizards, frogs, seeds, and berries. The flycatcher perches upright on an open post or branch, watching for insect prey below. When it spots something, the bird swoops out on long, pointed wings to snap up the insect in flight, returning to its perch to consume the meal. It also sometimes hovers briefly to grab insects. Grasshoppers are a preferred food item.
Threats and Conservation
Scissor-tailed flycatcher numbers declined between 1966 and 2014, according to the North American Breeding Bird Survey. However, the decline was small, with only about a 16% reduction over 48 years. The species is still relatively common and widespread in its breeding range. Habitat loss, urbanization, pesticide use, collisions with vehicles, and nest parasitism by brown-headed cowbirds may negatively impact flycatcher populations. Maintaining healthy open habitats will benefit the species.
Fun Facts
- The scissor-tailed flycatcher is the state bird of Oklahoma.
- It gets its name from its long, forked tail, which streams out behind the bird in flight.
- Males will sometimes twist their tails together and fence with each other.
- They build compact nests high up on isolated supports.
- Flycatchers occasionally rob nests of other birds.
- The oldest known flycatcher in the wild was at least 12 years old.
- They are agile aerial foragers that catch insects on the wing.
Spotting Tips
Here are some tips for spotting a scissor-tailed flycatcher:
- Look for open habitats like fields, prairies, and savannas.
- Scan fence posts and power lines for upright perching birds.
- Watch for aerial insectivores with long, forked tails and pointed wings.
- Listen for the bird’s loud, squealing call.
- Pay attention to aggressive chases as males chase intruders.
- Look high up in isolated trees or posts for neatly-built nests.
- Use binoculars to scan distant perches.
Conclusion
Spotting a scissor-tailed flycatcher can be a rewarding experience for a birder. This striking bird stands out with its deeply forked tail, pink flanks, and aerial agility. Seeing one means you are likely birding in open countryside in the south-central U.S. or along the Gulf Coast. Take note of the bird’s behavior and enjoy observing its dramatic appearance in flight. As the state bird of Oklahoma, the scissor-tailed flycatcher is a distinctive symbol of the southern Great Plains.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Length | 13-15 inches |
| Wingspan | 14 inches |
| Weight | 2-3 ounces |
| Tail length | Up to 10 inches |
| Plumage | Pale gray above, white below with pink flanks |
| Beak | Medium length, black |
| Range | Southern Great Plains, Gulf Coast, winters in Mexico and Central America |
| Habitat | Open country with scattered perches |
| Nest | Compact cup made of grasses and fibers |
| Eggs | 3-6 eggs, whitish with spots |
| Diet | Insects, spiders, small lizards and frogs |
| Lifespan | Up to 12 years in wild, over 20 years in captivity |
In summary, spotting a scissor-tailed flycatcher signifies you are birding in open habitat in the south-central or southeastern U.S. This striking bird can be identified by its extremely long, forked tail, pink flanks, and aerial insectivore behavior. Seeing one means you are observant, as they are widespread but relatively uncommon. Watch for them perching prominently on fence posts and wires. With binoculars, look for their agile flying ability while feeding. Scissor-tailed flycatchers are fascinating birds to observe.
