Black Phoebe

The Black Phoebe is a dapper, medium-sized flycatcher with all-black plumage except for a crisp white belly. It is often seen perching low on branches or rocks near water, wagging its tail rhythmically before darting out to catch insects in mid-air.

Dull charcoal-black to sooty-black on the outer vane and upper portion of the inner vane, with a distinct, narrow white or off-white margin along the edge of the inner vane near the base.

Tightly interlocked pennaceous barbs throughout most of the vane for flight stability, transition to plumulaceous (fluffy) downy barbs at the very base (calamus area).

Rachis is dark brown to black, stiff, and relatively thick for the feather size. Barbs are densely packed; color is uniform melanin-based black with no banding.

Smooth, matte finish typical of flycatchers. The leading edge (outer vane) is narrow and stiff, while the trailing edge is softer and broader.

Tail (Rectrix). The slight asymmetry and curvature suggest it is likely an outer or penultimate tail feather.

Sooty black coloration, 9cm length, and the hallmark white edging on the inner vane margin which is characteristic of the tail feathers of this species.

Found near water sources, including streams, rivers, lakes, and coastal cliffs, as well as suburban parks, backyards, and agricultural areas with available perches.

Resident year-round from the southwestern United States (including San Diego, CA) through Mexico and Central America to northwestern South America.

Primary insectivore, playing a vital role in controlling populations of flies, bees, and beetles. They serve as an indicator of healthy riparian and freshwater ecosystems.

Dark-eyed Junco tail feathers (contain much more white), Black Phoebe wing feathers (lack the specific white inner margin), or Say's Phoebe feathers (which are more cinnamon-gray).

Unlike most flycatchers that migrate, the Black Phoebe is a permanent resident in California. They are known for building cup-shaped mud nests plastered against vertical surfaces like canyon walls or bridge supports.

No significant historical use in fashion or industry; however, they are beloved by gardeners as natural controllers of flying insect populations.

Look for these feathers near water-side structures or under bridge pilings where Black Phoebes frequently roost and nest. The tail-wagging behavior is the best way to spot the live bird.

Fair to Good. The feather shows signs of wear at the tip (fraying) and some separation of the barbs near the midpoint, suggesting it was likely a molted feather or one lost during active movement.

San Diego, CA 9cm long Black and white