The Brujo Flycatcher (Myiarchus tyrannulus), also known as the Brown-crested Flycatcher, is a medium-sized bird found across a wide range of habitats in the Americas, from the southwestern United States down through Central America and into northern South America. This bird is known for its distinctive call and its habit of perching prominently while hunting for insects. With a relatively large crest, a brownish-gray back, and a bright yellow belly, the Brujo Flycatcher is a visually striking species that’s easily recognized in the wild.

Brujo Flycatchers are insectivores, primarily feeding on a diet of flying insects like beetles, wasps, and grasshoppers, which they catch in mid-air or pluck from vegetation. They are also known to eat small fruits and berries, especially during the non-breeding season when insects might be less abundant. Their foraging technique is typical of flycatchers; they perch quietly on a branch before darting out to catch their prey in a quick, acrobatic flight.

Breeding season for the Brujo Flycatcher varies depending on its location, but generally occurs during the spring and summer months. They build their nests in tree cavities, often reusing old woodpecker holes or natural hollows. The female typically lays a clutch of 3-4 eggs, which she incubates alone while the male defends the territory. Despite being relatively widespread, the Brujo Flycatcher’s reliance on specific nesting sites means that it can be vulnerable to habitat destruction, making the conservation of mature forests crucial for its continued survival.