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Say's Phoebe (Sayornis saya)
FIELD MARKS
Phoebes are medium-sized flycatchers. When they perch they often flick their
tail up and down, almost like they are wagging their tails. The Say's Phoebe
is brownish-grey on top, with a black tail and a cinnamon-coloured belly.
Approximate length: 17 cm
HABITAT
Most phoebes live near water and human habitations. Unlike the other two
phoebees that appear in British Columbia, the Say's Phoebe can be found
in open, dry places such as farmlands and alpine tundra-like areas in the
north.
NESTING
The Say's Phoebe builds its nests in many different sites, from crevices
in cliffs and natural tree cavities to wells and mine shafts. You can sometimes
find their nests under the eaves of houses or barns. They use plant fibres,
wool, hair and grasses to build their nests. The female lays 3-7 white eggs;
some have brown or reddish spots.
STATUS
The Say's Phoebe is the most common of the phoebes in British Columbia.
It adapts very well to changes in landscapes. |
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