Olive-sided Flycatcher (Contopus cooperi) - Special Concern

The Olive-sided Flycatcher is a medium- sized songbird about 18-20 cm long. This species is named for its appearance, with the feathers along its sides and back a deep brownish olive-gray colour against a white front. They are often seen perching at the top of tall trees, where they wait for flying insects (their prey) to pass by. They have a loud, three note whistle that sounds like they are singing “quick, three beers.” The Olive-sided Flycatcher is most often found along natural forest edges and openings.

Canadian Population: 450,000

Threats to this Species: The cause of Olive-sided flycatcher decline is unclear. Likely threats to the species include habitat loss and alteration of both breeding and wintering grounds.

Fun Fact: The Olive-sided Flycatcher is an unfamiliar bird to most people and perhaps best known among birders for its distinctive song, typically rendered as, "Quick, three beers!"

Want to learn more about local bird species? Visit Prince Edward Point Bird Observatory's website for more info!

Want to learn more about birds across Canada? Visit the Birds Canada website for more info!

Species descriptions are from the Species at Risk in Ontario website.