Cordilleran Flycatcher Identification

Looking for ID Help?

Get Instant ID help for 650+ North American birds.

Try Merlin Bird ID

The Four Keys to ID

  • Size & Shape

    A slim, small songbird with a large, often peaked head, a straight, flat, pointed bill, and a moderately long tail.

    Relative Size

    Slightly larger than a Mountain Chickadee, smaller than a Western Kingbird.

    Relative Sizesparrow or smallersparrow-sized or smaller
    Measurements
    • Both Sexes
      • Length: 5.5-6.7 in (14-17 cm)
      • Weight: 0.4-0.5 oz (11-13 g)
      • Wingspan: 8.7 in (22 cm)

Regional Differences

The two subspecies of Cordilleran Flycatcher are mainly distinguishable by measurements. The slightly larger hellmayri breeds from northwestern Mexico and California to Alberta and South Dakota, and winters in Mexico. The smaller, nonmigratory occidentalis is resident in Mexican mountains from Sinaloa to Veracruz and Oaxaca. In general, hellmayri has a slightly brighter yellow breast, whereas the breast of occidentalis is more greenish yellow.

Need Bird ID Help? Try Merlin