General Overview
Old World flycatchers (family Muscicapidae) are a large and diverse family of small passerine birds found mainly in Europe, Asia, and Africa. The group includes true flycatchers, redstarts, wheatears, stonechats, and robin-chats. With more than 300 species, they are best known for their insect-catching abilities, varied songs, and in many cases, their colorful plumage. They occupy a wide range of habitats and play an important role in controlling insect populations.
Appearance
Muscicapids are generally small, slender birds with upright postures, fine bills suited to snapping insects, and relatively short wings and tails, though proportions vary among genera. Plumage ranges from the drab browns and grays of many forest flycatchers to the striking oranges, blues, and blacks of redstarts and wheatears. Sexual dimorphism is common, with males often more brightly colored, especially during the breeding season, while females tend to be more subdued for camouflage.
Diet
As their name suggests, most Old World flycatchers primarily eat insects, which they capture in midair or glean from foliage. Their feeding technique often involves sallying—darting out from a perch to catch flying prey. In addition to insects, many species also consume spiders, small invertebrates, and a seasonal share of fruits and berries, especially during migration and winter when insects are less abundant.
Habitat
Members of the Muscicapidae family inhabit a broad range of environments, from dense tropical forests and temperate woodlands to grasslands, scrub, alpine slopes, and arid deserts. Some species are strongly tied to particular habitats, while others adapt well to human-altered landscapes such as gardens, orchards, and urban parks. Many are long-distance migrants, breeding in northern regions and wintering in warmer southern climates.
Behavior
Old World flycatchers are typically active, agile, and territorial during the breeding season. Their perching behavior—often upright on exposed twigs or posts—is distinctive, as is their quick sallying flight to catch prey. Songs and calls vary widely across the family, ranging from simple whistles to complex and melodious phrases, often used in territory defense and mate attraction. Most species build cup-shaped nests in trees, shrubs, or rock crevices, though some nest in cavities. Parental care is usually shared, with both sexes feeding the chicks.
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