A large flycatcher of the eastern half of North America. Unique among flycatchers in that they, along with the other Myiarchus flycatchers, nest in cavities including bird houses. Migratory, travels south to Central America. Feeds on insects, berries and occasionally even small lizards! Three records exist for this species in B.C. The first off Vancouver Island in late September 1995, another north of Golden with the most recent a bird that showed up at Island 22 Regional Park in Chilliwack.

Similar species:
Myiarchus flycatchers are challenging to identify. The only other species recorded in the area is the Ash-throated Flycatcher. Great Crested is larger overall with a bigger bill than Ash-throated. This bigger bill is also fairly pale at the base as opposed to a darker bill on Ash-throateds. Also, the Great Crested's yellow on the belly is brighter and contrasts more sharply with the darker grey upper breast. The rufous colouring in the wings and especially the tail is brighter and more extensive on the Great Crested. Habitat is behaviour of the two species is worth noting. Ash-throated Flycatchers prefer shrubby habitat and remain lower to the ground. Great Crested Flycatchers often inhabit the upper stories of decideous trees. The Myiarchus flycatchers recorded to date in our checklist area have followed suit with these tendencies quite accurately.

Sources:
Ehrlich, Dobkin and Wheye, (1988)
Sibley, (2000)
Toochin, M (2013)

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