Great Crested Flycatcher
An eastern woodland flycatcher that hunts high in the canopy and can use a properly placed cavity box where natural holes are scarce.
By Birdly Yard Editorial TeamReviewed Updated
Local season
Months with a state-level historical signal for this species.
Status
Backyard reports
Look for it
Listen for its rising whistle in deciduous woodlots, forest edges, parks, golf courses, and tree-lined neighborhoods during the breeding season.
Food
Mostly flying insects and other invertebrates, supplemented by small fruits swallowed whole.
Nesting
Natural nesting guidance
One useful next step
Build for the habitat, not just the feeder.
Retain mature deciduous trees, high exposed perches, dead branch structure where safe, and leafy woodland edges.
See the yard actionsA good yard is layered
Food helps, but cover, clean water, native plants, and a safe distance from hazards make a more dependable place for birds.
Great Crested Flycatcher habitat
Retain mature deciduous trees, high exposed perches, dead branch structure where safe, and leafy woodland edges.
Great Crested Flycatcher diet and food
Mostly flying insects and other invertebrates, supplemented by small fruits swallowed whole.
A conventional seed feeder is not useful; prioritize insect-rich native planting, open flycatching lanes, and a correctly designed nest box.
How to attract it
Food & feeder
Mostly flying insects and other invertebrates, supplemented by small fruits swallowed whole.
Cover & plants
Retain mature deciduous trees, high exposed perches, dead branch structure where safe, and leafy woodland edges.
Great Crested Flycatcher nesting and breeding
Uses tree cavities and boxes; mount a predator-guarded box about 12–20 feet high in open woodland with a clear entrance flight path before breeding season.
Great Crested Flycatcher behavior and where to look
Sits high, then launches into quick flights for insects in the air or foliage; it spends little time on the ground.
Photography
Listen first, then photograph from below a canopy perch without approaching an occupied cavity.
What to avoid
Do not use broad insecticides, remove active cavity nests, or put a box in a crowded open yard with no tree cover.
Continue exploring
Explore related bird guides
Compare food, habitat and nesting. Local seasonal records vary by species.
