Pied FLycaycher
Scientific Name: Ficedula hypoleucaMaltese Name: Zanzarell Iswed
Family: Muscicapidae (Flycatchers)
Occurence: Regular
Breeds in Malta: No
Overview:
In Spring, Males have white under parts, black and white plumage, one or two spots on forehead and also blackish wings. Female is more dull brown and paler. In autumn, males have duller plumage. The Pied Flycatcher is a forest species, preferring space under the canopy in which it can find food. It often drops to the ground to catch insects. Eats berries, seeds and also catches flying insects in air. In the breeding season, protein rich caterpillars are a vital food source for chicks. It has the same behavior as the similar species - Collared Flycatcher. It is a breeding visitor to Europe and winters in Africa.
Status:
Common Spring migrant and appears in smaller numbers in autumn
When to See:
Spring end of March-May and autumn September and October
Where to See:
It is preferably found in wooded areas and big gardens. Places like Buskett, Foresta 2000 and Comino are good sites to see this bird.
Photographs:
 |
Male Pied Flycatcher, Simar Nature Reserve |
 |
 |
| Male Pied Flycatcher, Marsa | Female Pied Flycatcher, Marsa |
 |
Female Pied Flycatcher, Ghadira Nature Reserve |
Hybrid Birds:
Hybrid birds of Pied Flycatcher and Collared Flycatcher sometimes occur in the Maltese Islands. Below are photographs of some of these birds:
 |
 |
| Hybrid Flycatcher, 28th April 2008, Comino | Hybrid Flycatcher/Possible Atlas Flyctacher, 1st May 2010, Comino |
Back to Bird Species List