Eastern Kingbird
Although known to breed elsewhere in Rhode Island, the Eastern Kingbird has only been observed during spring migration at Salter Grove at the southern end of the Marsh Trail.
When present, it is easy to spot as it darts from a lofty unobstructed perch to catch large flying insects along the edge of woodland vegetation. It is a dapper and trim-looking flycatcher with charcoal-gray plumage above that is somewhat darker in the head and tail. In contrast, the underparts and tip of the tail are creamy white.
It is the largest of flycatchers. Its aggressive behavior is reflected in its scientific name. Tyrannus means tyrant or king. It chases away any bird that dares to venture into its territory--including larger birds like the American Crow and Common Raven, and even raptors like the Red-tailed Hawk and Osprey.
The Eastern Kingbird breeds throughout North America except northernmost Canada and the arid region in the southwest of the United States. It favors wooded habitats that offer an abundance of perch sites and flying insects.
Like many other insectivorous migrants, the Eastern Kingbird relies on a high-protein insect diet during the breeding season but switches to fruits thereafter. Its aggressive tendencies also subside after the breeding season and flocks of ten to sixty birds are observed during migration as they make their way south feeding on fruits of the Magrumo Macho tree (Didymopanax morototoni), a common pioneer species throughout the tropical Americas.