The Eastern Phoebe is probably America ’s most recognizable flycatcher. It is also one of the first migrants to return from its wintering grounds and is often observed as early as February or March. Measuring about six inches in length, the phoebe is gray above and white below. The head may appear darker gray than the rest of the body. It is told from other flycatchers by its lack of wing bars and its habit of constantly wagging its tail. Males and females are similar. The Eastern Phoebe was the first officially banded bird in America . It was banded in 1804 by John James Audubon. The bird’s “Fee-bee” call is one of the most familiar of the spring in the eastern United States .

Diet: Like most flycatchers, the phoebe consumes large numbers of insects.

Range: The eastern Phoebe breeds from western Canada , south through most of the central and eastern portions of the United States . It is absent as a breeder in parts of the deep south and Florida , though it can be found in winter in these locales. It also winters through most of Mexico .

Habitat: Open areas, farmlands, suburbs with open space, woodland edges. The Phoebe prefers places near a water source.

Nesting: Females incubate eggs for 16-18 before they hatch. She lays 2-6 white eggs in a nest that is usually positioned up against a wall or under an eave or bridge.

Status: Common and stable.