Watercolor portrait of Say's Phoebe (Sayornis saya)

Say's Phoebe

Sayornis saya
Breeds from central Alaska and western C… Open arid or semi-arid terrain including… Common Soft Whistled Song

Learn to identify the Say's Phoebe by ear. Master the "pit pee-ur, pit pee-ur" phrase and tell it apart from similar species.

“pit pee-ur, pit pee-ur”

What the Say's Phoebe sounds like

Say's Phoebe is a slim, long-tailed flycatcher of the open West. Dressed in soft gray-brown above and warm cinnamon-buff below, it sallies out from low perches to snatch insects in mid-air or from the ground. Unlike many flycatchers it often nests on human structures, placing its mud-lined cup under eaves, bridges, or cliff ledges.

“pit pee-ur, pit pee-ur”

How to tell it apart

Listen for:A low, burry succession of phrases, often delivered from a fence post or small bush, sounding like a hoarse, descending whistle followed by an upslur. Often written as “pit pee-ur, pit pee-ur”.
Don't confuse with:The Eastern Phoebe — lacks cinnamon belly; shows off-white underparts that may be yellowish on sides.

Where you'll hear it

Open arid or semi-arid terrain including sagebrush flats, prairies, canyons, ranches, farmland, desert scrub, and the edges of cliffs or buildings that provide nest ledges.

One of the earliest flycatchers to arrive on the breeding grounds (often February-March). Most depart by late September, though migrants linger into October. Winter birds defend feeding territories in warmer regions.

Similar species

Eastern Phoebe

Lacks cinnamon belly; shows off-white underparts that may be yellowish on sides.

Black Phoebe

Entirely blackish head and breast forming sharp contrast with white belly.

Ash-throated Flycatcher

Larger size with fuller, crested head and stout bill.

Say's Phoebe song FAQ

What does a Say's Phoebe sound like?
A low, burry succession of phrases, often delivered from a fence post or small bush, sounding like a hoarse, descending whistle followed by an upslur. Listen for the "pit pee-ur, pit pee-ur" phrase.
How do I tell a Say's Phoebe from a Eastern Phoebe by sound?
Eastern Phoebe: Lacks cinnamon belly; shows off-white underparts that may be yellowish on sides.; Shorter tail pumps less vigorously.; Range largely east of the Rockies..
When is the best time to hear a Say's Phoebe?
One of the earliest flycatchers to arrive on the breeding grounds (often February-March). Most depart by late September, though migrants linger into October. Winter birds defend feeding territories in warmer regions.