Olive-sided Flycatcher

Contopus cooperi

Long-distance migrant Prefers open coniferous and mixed forest… Uncommon 2 sounds

Learn to identify the Olive-sided Flycatcher by ear. Master the "Quick-three-beers!" phrase and tell it apart from similar species.

“whip-three-BEERS!”

What the Olive-sided Flycatcher sounds like

The Olive-sided Flycatcher is a sturdy, long-winged songbird best known for its emphatic whip-three-beers song delivered from conspicuous treetop perches. Dark-olive flanks and vest give the bird a vested appearance that sets it apart from other flycatchers.

“Quick-three-beers!”

Call:

How to tell it apart

Listen for:Loud, clear, three-syllable whistle with emphasis on last note; delivered repeatedly from exposed treetops. Often written as “whip-three-BEERS!”.

Don't confuse with:The Eastern Wood-Pewee — much smaller, lacks bold olive vest

Lessons featuring the Olive-sided Flycatcher

Ready to test your ear? Practice identifying the Olive-sided Flycatcher's sounds in this interactive in-app lesson.

Empid ID Bootcamp

Tier 12 · By Pitch and Pace

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Where you'll hear it

Prefers open coniferous and mixed forests with tall snags or dead branches that provide high hunting perches; commonly found around forest edges, clear-cuts, burns, and bogs.

Breeding in late May–August in North America; southbound migration August–September; austral wintering November–March; northbound migration April–May.

Similar species

Eastern Wood-Pewee

Much smaller, lacks bold olive vest

Western Wood-Pewee

Grayer overall with no sharp contrast on sides

Greater Pewee

Noticeably larger with long, narrow bill

Olive-sided Flycatcher song FAQ

What does an Olive-sided Flycatcher sound like?

Loud, clear, three-syllable whistle with emphasis on last note; delivered repeatedly from exposed treetops. Listen for the "Quick-three-beers!" phrase.

How do I tell an Olive-sided Flycatcher from a Eastern Wood-Pewee by sound?

Eastern Wood-Pewee: Much smaller, lacks bold olive vest; Shorter primary projection; Gives plaintive pee-a-wee song instead of whip-three-beers.

When is the best time to hear an Olive-sided Flycatcher?

Breeding in late May–August in North America; southbound migration August–September; austral wintering November–March; northbound migration April–May.