Life List 065
Visually documented
Western Kingbird
Tyrannus verticalis
- First photographed
- June 2, 2026
- First location
- Colorado, United States
- Conservation status
- Least Concern
An evolving study
Western Kingbird portfolio
This collection grows as I return to photograph new behavior, habitat, seasons, and stages of life.
Natural history
Species at a glance
Tyrannus verticalis
Overview
The Western Kingbird is a conspicuous open-country flycatcher that launches from fences, wires, and treetops to capture insects. It aggressively defends its nesting territory against much larger birds.
Identification
Pale gray head and chest, bright yellow belly, darker wings, and black tail edged with white on the outer feathers. A red-orange crown patch is usually concealed.
Range
Breeds across western and central North America and migrates to Mexico and Central America for winter.
Habitat
Grasslands, desert, farms, roadsides, savanna, towns, and woodland edges with scattered trees, utility poles, or fences.
Diet
Flying insects such as beetles, grasshoppers, bees, wasps, and flies, plus berries and other fruit.
Photography by Brittany Templin
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