Flycatchers are a family of small passerine birds which feed on flying insects. There are over 400 species of flycatchers found worldwide, occurring on every continent except Antarctica. While some species have stable or increasing populations, other flycatcher species are declining and at risk of extinction.
What are flycatchers?
Flycatchers belong to the family Tyrannidae. They are named for their method of catching insects on the wing. Most flycatchers make short sallies from an open perch to snap up prey. They have small bills with bristles at the base that help them catch and hold insects. Flycatchers occur in a variety of habitats from forests to grasslands to wetlands. They are found on every continent except Antarctica.
Some well-known flycatchers include:
- Eastern kingbird
- Western kingbird
- Great crested flycatcher
- Willow flycatcher
- Least flycatcher
- Eastern phoebe
- Western wood pewee
- Vermilion flycatcher
- Scissor-tailed flycatcher
Are all flycatcher species in decline?
No, not all flycatcher species are declining. Some species such as the great crested flycatcher have large populations and stable or increasing trends. According to the North American Breeding Bird Survey, great crested flycatcher populations increased by 0.81% per year between 1966-2015.
Other flycatchers with increasing or stable populations include:
- Sulphur-bellied flycatcher
- Brown-crested flycatcher
- White-throated flycatcher
- Flammulated flycatcher
- Social flycatcher
However, many other flycatcher species are experiencing population declines and are at risk of extinction. Declining species face threats like habitat loss, climate change, and pesticide use.
What flycatcher species are declining or endangered?
Here are some examples of flycatcher species that are declining, endangered, or critically endangered:
Pale-headed brushfinch
This Central American species is listed as Critically Endangered on the IUCN Red List. It is estimated there are only 50-249 mature individuals remaining. Habitat loss is the major threat.
Grey-breasted flycatcher
Native to Mexico and the southwestern United States, this species is listed as Near Threatened. Its population has declined by 30-49% in the last three generations. Habitat loss is contributing to its decline.
Giant flycatcher
This large flycatcher of the Ecuadorian Chocó is listed as Endangered by the IUCN. There are estimated to be only 1,500 – 7,000 individuals remaining. Deforestation is destroying its specialized habitat.
Sharpe’s flycatcher
Endemic to Kenya, this species is categorized as Vulnerable with a decreasing population. Habitat degradation is threatening the flycatcher’s limited range.
Sao Tome shorttail
Found only on the island of Sao Tome off west Africa, this flycatcher is Critically Endangered. Its habitat has declined by over 80% in the last three generations. Only 50 mature individuals remain.
Yellow-legged flycatcher
This South American flycatcher has a range spanning Argentina, Brazil, and Paraguay. It is considered Near Threatened with an estimated global population between 2,500-9,999 mature individuals. Habitat loss is ongoing across its range.
IUCN Red List flycatcher summary
According to the IUCN Red List, out of 418 evaluated flycatcher species:
- 16 species are Critically Endangered
- 22 species are Endangered
- 34 species are Vulnerable
- 65 species are Near Threatened
So over 100 species of flycatchers have concerning conservation statuses indicating they are at higher risk of extinction.
Major threats to flycatchers
The major threats placing flycatchers at risk include:
Habitat loss and degradation
Loss of natural habitats like forests and wetlands is a major factor in flycatcher declines. Logging, agriculture, development, and other human activities destroy vital breeding and foraging areas for flycatchers.
Climate change
Changing climates and increased droughts, fires, storms, and other weather extremes threaten flycatcher survival and reproduction. Ranges are shifting and food sources altering.
Pesticides
Chemical pesticides reduce insect prey availability for flycatchers. They can also poison birds or have detrimental reproductive effects.
Competition with invasive species
Introduced bird competitors may compete with flycatchers for food, nest sites, or other resources. Nest parasitism by brown-headed cowbirds also impacts some species.
Flycatcher conservation efforts
Conservation initiatives are underway to try to protect imperiled flycatcher species:
- Habitat protection – Creating reserves and protected areas.
- Habitat restoration – Improving degraded forests, wetlands, and other habitats.
- Controlling invasive species – Removing harmful introduced competitors.
- Nest boxes – Providing artificial cavities for breeding.
- Captive breeding – Raising flycatchers in zoos/aviaries for release.
- Research and monitoring – Studying flycatcher populations and threats.
- Education – Teaching local communities about flycatchers and sustainability.
Flycatcher Species | Conservation Actions |
---|---|
Sao Tome shorttail | Habitat restoration, controlling invasive species, captive breeding program |
Ashy-headed greenlet | Habitat protection, nest boxes, research and monitoring |
Giant flycatcher | Habitat protection, education programs, research |
Targeted conservation efforts like these can help stabilize declining populations and support the recovery of endangered flycatchers.
Conclusion
Many flycatcher species around the world are declining and face extinction risk. Habitat loss, climate change, pesticides, and invasive species are putting pressure on flycatcher populations. Species in Central and South America, Africa, and other regions are most at risk.
However, not all flycatcher species are in trouble. Some widespread species like the great crested flycatcher are doing well. Through habitat protection, restoration, reducing threats, and international cooperation, the outlook for endangered flycatchers can be improved.
Monitoring flycatcher population trends and implementing conservation actions will be key to preventing further declines. With proper management, these colorful and charismatic birds can continue gracing ecosystems with their aerial insectivore ways into the future.