One of the first signs of spring isn’t a flower—it’s the return of the Say’s Phoebe! This early migrant often arrives before insects are abundant, braving chilly March days in search of food. Unlike many flycatchers, Say’s Phoebes are comfortable nesting near people, often choosing porches, barns, or ledges for their homes.

This flycatcher is often one of the first to return, arriving in March when many other birds are still making their way back. Their soft gray and brown plumage, coupled with their rusty orange belly, makes them easy to spot against the backdrop of bare branches or open fields. Say’s Phoebes are well-known for their tail-wagging behavior, which adds a unique flair to their presence.

What’s particularly fascinating about these birds is their adaptability to human environments. Unlike many flycatchers that prefer remote wooded areas, Say’s Phoebes have become quite comfortable around people. They frequently nest on man-made structures like porches, barns, and bridges, often building their cup-shaped nests out of grasses, twigs, and even hair or feathers they find nearby. In some areas, they can be seen nesting close to human settlements, sometimes even in the midst of urban sprawl. One pair nests on my neighbor's porch every year!

Though typically solitary when foraging, Say’s Phoebes are often seen in pairs during the breeding season. They have a unique method of hunting, perching on an exposed spot such as a fence post or tree branch and then swooping down to catch insects in mid-air. Their diet consists mainly of flying insects, but they will also forage for beetles, grasshoppers, and even spiders. Because of their insect-eating habits, they are beneficial in controlling insect populations, especially in agricultural areas.

Say’s Phoebes breed in open, shrubby habitats, often in grasslands or semi-desert regions. They have a wide breeding range that stretches across the western United States and Canada. In fact, they are one of the earliest migratory birds to return to their breeding grounds, often ahead of other species that follow the same migratory routes. This early arrival gives them a jump start on finding mates and claiming nesting territories. They prefer to nest in areas where there is a combination of low shrubs, open fields, and nearby water sources.

Say’s Phoebes are relatively quiet compared to other songbirds, but they communicate using a soft, melodious “fee-bee” call. Their song can often be heard while they’re perched or flying, though it’s less complex than that of other flycatchers. In fact, their call is often described as a simple but pleasant whistle that announces their presence.

Unlike many flycatchers that migrate long distances, Say’s Phoebes often stay within North America throughout the year. While some populations move south in the winter, others may remain in mild climates, particularly in the southwestern United States, Arizona, and northern Mexico. However, those that do migrate often head toward warmer areas, where they can find food throughout the colder months.

Though their range is expansive, the Say’s Phoebe faces certain challenges, particularly with habitat loss and changes in land use. As cities and farms expand, the natural habitats they rely on for nesting and foraging are being altered. Thankfully, these birds are adaptable and have learned to thrive in more developed environments, but ongoing conservation efforts to preserve their natural habitats are still important.

Next time you’re out walking in the spring, look for a Say’s Phoebe perched on a fencepost or swooping down to catch a bug—they’re a beautiful reminder that spring is on its way!