Black Phoebe look-alikes
Sayornis nigricans
Spotted a bird? Identify it instantly with the Birdby app
Open the appSeveral birds can be mistaken for the Black Phoebe. Compare the key differences below to confirm your sighting.
Birds to compare
Eastern Phoebe
Sayornis phoebe
Key differences
The Eastern Phoebe is duller, lacking the extensive black on the head and breast. It is grayish-brown above and whitish below, with a dusky wash on the flanks. It also wags its tail, but its overall coloration is much less contrasting than the Black Phoebe.
Say's Phoebe
Sayornis saya
Key differences
Say's Phoebe has a grayish-brown head and back, a pale gray breast, and a distinctive rusty-orange belly and undertail coverts. It also wags its tail but is easily distinguished by its color pattern.
Dark-capped Flycatcher
Myiarchus tuberculifer
Key differences
Found in Central and South America, the Dark-capped Flycatcher is generally smaller, has a more olive-brown back, a darker cap, and a pale yellow belly. It lacks the stark black and white contrast of the Black Phoebe and does not exhibit the constant tail-wagging.
Explore the Black Phoebe
Identify birds anywhere
Free on iOS, Android, and Web. Photo & sound identification, full species database, and your personal life list.