Northern fork-tailed flycatcher (SciiFii)

The northern fork-tailed flycatcher (Tyrannus nevadum) is a species of passerine bird of the tyrant flycatcher family, most closely related to the southern fork-tailed flycatcher (Tyrannus savana), that originally did not exist, but has since been created by SciiFii and introduced throughout the open woodlands, grasslands, shrublands, and scrublands across the central, southern, southwestern, and western North America to help boost biodiversity. The northern fork-tailed flycatcher is white below and gray above, and has a black cap. Males sometimes show a yellow crown stripe. Males also have an extremely long, forked tail, of even greater length than that of the related scissor-tailed flycatcher (Tyrannus forficatus). Females have a somewhat shorter tail, and it is significantly shorter in juveniles. Males are 37–41 centimeters (15–16 inches) in length; females, 28–30 centimeters (11–12 inches), including tail. They weigh only 28–32 grams (0.99–1.13 oz), much less than closely related kingbirds (Tyrannus), which are half the total length of this species. The tail in adult males is two to three times longer than the length of the bird from the bill to the base of the tail. Generally, males and females of the species look quite similar, but can be distinguished by the longer tail in males. This species is primarily an insectivore, but will switch to berries and small fruits during winter if insects become scarce. Northern fork-tailed flycatchers sally from their perches to eat flying insects or glean them off of leaves and fruit. When insects become less available in winter months, they have been observed eating fruits. Northern fork-tailed flycatchers long tail is an important asset in their hunt for arthropods. The long tail allows them to turn on a dime and sally after prey. In fact, northern fork-tailed flycatchers – though small and light – can reach speeds up to 65 miles per hour (105 km/h) and stop/turn impressively quickly using their flashy tails. During the breeding season, the males perform aerial courtship displays involving swirling somersaults, twists, and flips. All partnered with their buzzing calls, they do their best to impress female counterparts. Courtship displays also provide a usage for their long tail feathers (which are longer in males), as a way to impress potential mates. Breeding seasons are dependent on subspecies and location; breeding season ranges from late summer to mid-winter. Northern fork-tailed flycatchers tend to build their cup nests in similar habitats to their hunting grounds (riparian forests, grasslands). The clutch is 1–3 eggs. The conservation status of the northern fork-tailed flycatcher is Least Concern due to successful conservation efforts, the northern fork-tailed flycatcher's wide range and its tolerance to many of the human activities.
Category:Animals
Category:Species
Category:SciiFii