Eastern Phoebe song and calls

Birdsong and calls are often the easiest way to identify the Eastern Phoebe, especially when the bird is hidden in dense foliage. Below is what to listen for.

Song

The primary song is a distinctive, two-part, emphatic 'fee-bee' or 'fiss-bzzzt', often repeated rapidly. The first syllable is clear and whistled, while the second is buzzy and lower-pitched. There can be variations, sometimes sounding like 'fee-b-b-bee'.

Calls

Common calls include a sharp 'chip' or 'tsip' note, often given when agitated or as a contact call. They also have a soft 'tew' call.

When they vocalize

Sings frequently from early morning to late evening during the breeding season, often from an exposed perch. Calls are given year-round.

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