Western Kingbird

Tyrannus verticalis Say, 1822

Western Kingbird, Tyrannus verticalis, is a passerine of the Tyrannidae family that breeds across north-western and north-central Canada to northern Mexico, and spends the non-breeding season from south-western Mexico to Costa Rica. It is a western North American bird of open country, and its range has spread across the Great Plains. Adults show grey and yellow plumage, with crimson feathers that are usually concealed and appear in courtship or when facing rivals. It is often confused with similar kingbirds, but the black square tail with white edges sets it apart.

Order

Passeriformes

Family

Tyrannidae — Tyrant Flycatchers, Calyptura

Breeding range

North America: nw, nc Canada to n Mexico

Nonbreeding range

sw Mexico to Costa Rica