Documentation of
Alder Flycatcher
2015-149
Observer Information
Reporter:
David Dowell
3721 Staghorn Dr,
Longmont,
CO 80503
E-mail:
dave1wx@gmail.com
Other Observers:
Bill Kaempfer
Species, Date, Time and Location Information
Species:
Alder Flycatcher
First Date/Time:
5/24/2015 4:45:00 PM
Last Date/Time:
5/25/2015 8:00:00 AM
Duration (total time in view):
20 minutes
County:
Phillips
Specific Location:
Holyoke
Number:
2
Age:
Adult
Sex:
Unknown
Plumage:
Other/Unknown
Habitat
bushes and trees along small stream
Viewing Conditions
Optics:
binoculars, camera
Distance:
as close as 40 feet
Light:
cloudy initially, then sunny
Description of the Bird
At the Lion's Club "Fishin' Hole" on the east side of Holyoke, the birds, quickly identified as empids, were taking low perches in willows, bushes, and trees near a small stream. At times, the birds chased each other around. Visible characteristics were large bill (relative to other empids) with entirely pale underside, complete but narrow eyering, olive-colored back, white wingbars, longish primary projection, and wide and straight-sided tail. Each bird called "peep" multiple times. One of the birds sang "rreeBEEa" twice.
Similar Species Discussion
The species list was narrowed down to Alder, Willow, and Acadian Flycatchers based on the large bill, long primaries, and broad tail. Willow was eliminated because it would have a poorly defined eyering instead. The "peep" call heard from both birds eliminates Willow and Acadian. (As described by Sibley, this "peep" call was reminiscent of a single call note by an Olive-sided Flycatcher.)
Resources Used
Sibley Guide to Birds
xeno-canto.org
Previous Experience
I have been observing empids since I started birding in 2012, and continue to find them challenging. This was my second time to observe Alder Flycatcher. Also, I had spent time in previous weeks learning empid calls and songs from recordings on xeno-canto.org.
Notes
Notes made DURING observation
Date Documentation Submitted
11/27/2016 7:53:00 PM
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