The Eastern Kingbird is a bold, aggressive flycatcher known for fearlessly attacking crows, hawks, and even eagles that venture near its nest. Its sharply contrasting black-and-white plumage and white-tipped tail make it easy to identify on open perches. On its South American wintering grounds it forms large flocks and shifts to a fruit-heavy diet.
Best time to see a Eastern Kingbird
The best time to see a Eastern Kingbird is March–June, when about 61% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 134,885 research-grade iNaturalist observations.
Not certain it is a Eastern Kingbird? What bird is this? walks through what to check first and the lookalikes that catch people out.
Recent Eastern Kingbird sightings near you
Live, research-grade observations from iNaturalist. Allow location to center the map on you.
Spotted an Eastern Kingbird?
Point Huck at any plant, bird, or animal and know for sure - plus a live map of where it is being spotted near you.