Watercolor portrait of Willow Flycatcher (Empidonax traillii)

Willow Flycatcher

Empidonax traillii
Breeds across much of the United States… Dense, shrubby habitats near water such… Uncommon to locally common Primary Song

Learn to identify the Willow Flycatcher by ear. Master the "FITZ-bew" phrase and tell it apart from similar species.

“FITZ-bew”

What the Willow Flycatcher sounds like

A small, inconspicuous flycatcher famous for its explosive 'FITZ-bew' song. Plain olive-brown above and whitish below with a faint olive wash on the breast, it lacks the contrasting eye-ring and yellowish tones shown by many Empidonax relatives. Identification relies heavily on voice, habitat, and subtle structure.

“FITZ-bew”

How to tell it apart

Listen for:A sharp, two-syllable burst; first syllable rising, second falling and slightly burry. Delivered repeatedly from exposed perches. Often written as “FITZ-bew”.
Don't confuse with:The Alder Flycatcher — song is different—nasal 'fee-bee-o', not 'fitz-bew'.

Lessons featuring the Willow Flycatcher

Ready to test your ear? Practice identifying the Willow Flycatcher's sounds in these interactive in-app lessons.

Empid Escape Room lesson habitat
Empid Escape Room
Tier 6 · After Hours
Empid ID Bootcamp lesson habitat
Empid ID Bootcamp
Tier 12 · By Pitch and Pace
Start Learning Free

Where you'll hear it

Dense, shrubby habitats near water such as willow thickets, riparian corridors, wet meadows, swamp edges, and overgrown beaver ponds.

Arrives on breeding grounds late spring (May–June), nests through July, departs by early September for tropical wintering areas.

Similar species

Alder Flycatcher

Song is different—nasal 'fee-BEE-o', not 'FITZ-bew'.

Eastern Wood-Pewee

Noticeably longer wings and primary projection.

Least Flycatcher

Bold, complete white eye-ring.

Willow Flycatcher song FAQ

What does a Willow Flycatcher sound like?
A sharp, two-syllable burst; first syllable rising, second falling and slightly burry. Delivered repeatedly from exposed perches. Listen for the "FITZ-bew" phrase.
How do I tell a Willow Flycatcher from a Alder Flycatcher by sound?
Alder Flycatcher: Song is different—nasal 'fee-BEE-o', not 'FITZ-bew'.; Bill slightly shorter and narrower.; Prefers bogs and alders rather than willows in the East..
When is the best time to hear a Willow Flycatcher?
Arrives on breeding grounds late spring (May–June), nests through July, departs by early September for tropical wintering areas.