The Vermilion Flycatcher is one of the most brilliantly colored birds in North America — the male's crown and underparts are an almost luminous fire-engine red that contrasts with his jet-black back and wings. Males perform a 'butterfly display' flight — fluttering slowly with puffed red breast and calling — to court females. It sits conspicuously on exposed perches in desert riparian areas.
Best time to see a Vermilion Flycatcher
The best time to see a Vermilion Flycatcher is January–June, when about 60% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 25,154 research-grade iNaturalist observations.
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Recent Vermilion Flycatcher sightings near you
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