Thick-billed Kingbird

Basic Description

The boisterous Thick-billed Kingbird—once described as “Arizona’s loudest bird”—is a conspicuous presence as it perches atop tall trees and calls noisily in pursuit of flying insects. This species' large head, upright posture, and pugnacious behavior mark it as a kingbird; its massive bill, black mask, and white throat and breast distinguish it from similar species. This large flycatcher inhabits dry, open habitats across western Mexico. In its limited U.S. range, in southeastern Arizona, it is largely restricted to streamside woodland with cottonwoods and sycamores.