Species BirdsTropical Kingbird

Tropical Kingbird

Tyrannus melancholicus

UncommonBird
Illustration of Tropical Kingbird (Tyrannus melancholicus)

The Tropical Kingbird is a common and loud kingbird of tropical America that enters the US in southern Arizona and the Lower Rio Grande Valley. It has become a predictable fall vagrant to the Pacific Coast. The notched brown tail and large, heavy bill distinguish it from similar kingbirds.

Habitat
Open woodland edges and riparian areas of southern Arizona and Texas; fall vagrant to California coast
Diet
Large flying insects and small berries
How common
Uncommon

Best time to see a Tropical Kingbird

The best time to see a Tropical Kingbird is September–February, when about 60% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 4,789 research-grade iNaturalist observations.

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