Tropical Kingbird

The Tropical Kingbird is one of Ecuador’s most conspicuous and widespread flycatchers, found year-round across both lowland and foothill regions from sea level to about 1,500 meters. It thrives in open and semi-open habitats—including towns, gardens, pastures, and forest edges—where it perches boldly on wires or treetops and launches acrobatically to catch flying insects. Globally listed as Least Concern, its population remains robust due to its adaptability to human-altered landscapes and broad Neotropical range. Breeding occurs in exposed tree forks or man-made structures, with pairs constructing messy nests and defending their territory with sharp calls and persistent aerial chases.