Acadian Flycatcher vs Sulphur-bellied Flycatcher
Empidonax virescens versus Myiodynastes luteiventris
Play a quiz with Acadian Flycatcher and Sulphur-bellied Flycatcher
Acadian Flycatcher
Sulphur-bellied Flycatcher
In short
The Acadian Flycatcher and Sulphur-bellied Flycatcher are both members of the Tyrant Flycatchers family but differ significantly in appearance and habitat. The Acadian Flycatcher is a small, greenish flycatcher of eastern forests, while the Sulphur-bellied Flycatcher is larger, with bold streaking and a distinctive yellow belly, found in southwestern riparian areas.
Identification tips
1. Look for the Acadian Flycatcher in eastern forests, especially near water. 2. Note the Sulphur-bellied Flycatcher's bold streaking and yellow belly in southwestern riparian areas. 3. Listen for the Acadian's 'peet-sah' song versus the Sulphur-bellied's harsh call.
Size
The Acadian Flycatcher is smaller with a more delicate build, while the Sulphur-bellied Flycatcher is larger and more robust.
Plumage
The Acadian Flycatcher is greenish above with a whitish underbelly, lacking bold markings. In contrast, the Sulphur-bellied Flycatcher has a striking appearance with bold streaks on the chest and a bright yellow belly.
Behaviour
Both species are flycatchers, but the Acadian Flycatcher is more often found in dense forest interiors, while the Sulphur-bellied Flycatcher is seen in more open, riparian habitats.
Habitat
The Acadian Flycatcher inhabits mature deciduous forests, often near water, in the eastern U.S. The Sulphur-bellied Flycatcher prefers riparian woodlands in the southwestern U.S. and into Central America.
Voice
The Acadian Flycatcher has a distinctive explosive 'peet-sah' song, while the Sulphur-bellied Flycatcher's call is a harsh, rolling 'kree-kree-kree'.
Acadian Flycatcher · Sulphur-bellied Flycatcher · My Tricky Birds