Atrapamoscas Apical
Apical Flycatcher
Myiarchus apicalis
Song
Apical Flycatcher
Appearance: The Apical Flycatcher is a medium-sized bird characterized by its olive-brown upperparts and yellowish underparts. It has a distinct crest on its head and a relatively long tail. The wings are dark with rufous edges, and it has a pale throat and a subtle eye ring.
Habitat: This species inhabits subtropical or tropical dry forests and shrublands. It is also found in open areas with scattered trees, such as agricultural lands and plantations. The Apical Flycatcher tends to prefer lower elevations below 1,500 m.
Behavior: The Apical Flycatcher is known for its active foraging behavior. It feeds on insects, which it catches in flight or gleans from foliage. The bird is often seen perching conspicuously on branches or wires, from where it launches short flights to capture prey. It is also known for its vocalizations, which include a series of whistles and calls.
Breeding: Information on the breeding behavior of the Apical Flycatcher is limited, but like other flycatchers, it is likely to nest in tree cavities or similar structures. The breeding season aligns with the onset of the rainy season, which provides an abundance of food resources for raising young.
Conservation Status: The Apical Flycatcher is now classified as Least Concern by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).
Distribution
As an endemic species, the Apical Flycatcher is found exclusively in Colombia. Its distribution is concentrated in the inter-Andean valleys, including the Magdalena Valley and the Cauca Valley (see map). The species' range is closely associated with the dry forest and open woodland habitats of these regions.
Taxonomy
The Apical Flycatcher (Myiarchus apicalis)
- Kingdom: Animalia
- Phylum: Chordata
- Class: Aves (Birds)
- Order: Passeriformes
- Family: Tyrannidae
- Genus: Myiarchus
- Species: Myiarchus apicalis
Vocalization
Communication: The primary purpose of the Apical Flycatcher's vocalizations is communication. These birds use calls to establish territory, attract mates, and communicate with their partners and offspring.
Territorial Calls: Males often use vocalizations to defend their territory from other males. These calls can serve as warnings to intruders and help maintain the boundaries of their territory.
Mating Calls: During the breeding season, vocalizations can be crucial for attracting mates. Males may use specific calls or songs to demonstrate their fitness and appeal to potential female partners.
Alarm Calls: Apical Flycatchers, like many other birds, may use alarm calls to alert others of potential predators or dangers in the vicinity.
Contact Calls: These are used to keep in touch with family members or mates, especially in dense forest habitats where visual contact might be limited.
Purpose
The vocalizations of the Apical Flycatcher serve several essential purposes that are critical to their survival and reproductive success. These include:
Territorial Defense: By vocalizing, flycatchers can effectively communicate their presence and defend their territory from other competing males, ensuring access to resources like food and nesting sites.
Mate Attraction: Vocalizations play a crucial role in mate selection, where the quality and frequency of calls can influence a female's choice of partner.
Predator Avoidance: Alarm calls can help alert other birds of predators, increasing the chances of survival for the individual and its offspring.
Social Interaction: Vocalizations facilitate social interactions within pairs or family groups, helping maintain bonds and coordinate activities such as feeding and caring for young.
