Olive-sided Flycatcher vs Eastern Wood-Pewee

In short

The Olive-sided Flycatcher and Eastern Wood-Pewee are both medium-sized flycatchers, but they can be distinguished by their plumage and vocalizations. The Olive-sided Flycatcher is known for its distinctive dark vest-like markings on the sides of its chest, while the Eastern Wood-Pewee has a more uniform grayish-olive appearance. Their songs are also different, with the Olive-sided Flycatcher's song being a loud, clear 'quick, three beers!' and the Eastern Wood-Pewee's a plaintive 'pee-a-wee.'

Identification tips

1. Look for the Olive-sided Flycatcher's dark vest-like markings on the sides of its chest. 2. Listen for the Olive-sided Flycatcher's distinctive 'quick, three beers!' song compared to the Eastern Wood-Pewee's 'pee-a-wee.' 3. Note the habitat: Olive-sided Flycatchers prefer open areas with tall trees, while Eastern Wood-Pewees are found in various wooded habitats.

Size

Both species are similar in size, typical of medium-sized flycatchers.

Plumage

The Olive-sided Flycatcher has a distinctive dark vest on its sides, contrasting with a lighter belly, while the Eastern Wood-Pewee is more uniformly grayish-olive without the vest-like markings.

Behaviour

Both species perch conspicuously when foraging, but the Olive-sided Flycatcher often uses higher, more prominent perches.

Habitat

The Olive-sided Flycatcher prefers forest edges and open areas with tall trees or snags, while the Eastern Wood-Pewee is found in a variety of wooded habitats, including deciduous and mixed forests.

Voice

The Olive-sided Flycatcher's song is a loud, clear 'quick, three beers!' while the Eastern Wood-Pewee's song is a plaintive 'pee-a-wee.'