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Restless Flycatcher |
Sightings
In 2003-2006 Restless Flycatchers (subspecies "inquieta") occasionally came to our garden and also to our neighbour's property 20 km south of Narrabri, New South Wales. Outwardly similar to Willie Wagtails, they fly and hover differently and their call is very distinct. Restless Flycatchers are summer visitors in our area; during wintertime we have not seen any yet. Seen by us in 2004, 2005 and 2006; returned, after disappearing for the winter in March, in September of 2006.
In the winter of 2007 also spotted 20 km east of Narrabri. After a few months absence, reappeared in January 2008. Also seen on the western fringe of Mt. Kaputar National Park, 30 km east of Narrabri, in August 2008.
Photos
Restless Flycatchers sometimes come very close to humans, e.g. when picking off insects under patio roofs, as shown here (click on image for larger version)
Restless Flycatcher hunting from a washing line (click on image for larger version)
Lateral view of a Restless Flycatcher with almost entirely white frontal plumage (click on image for larger version)
The same bird as above, now with a clear view of its bill from above (click on image for larger version)
Lateral view of a male Restless Flycatcher; one can see clearly the glossy blue-black feathers on its back; the buff colour patch on the breast is very faint
This is how it produces its incredible call... Note the pronounced buff breast patch, tapering off into a paler tint further down, while its throat is white
Restless Flycatcher in fresh plumage, giving it a buff tint all over its front parts which will turn white as the feather tips wear (click on image for larger version)
The same Restless Flycatcher as above, taking an ant (click on image for larger version)
Here one taking a larger insect