Sad Flycatcher Myiarchus barbirostris Scientific name definitions

The Sad Flycatcher is endemic to the island of Jamaica, where it is known colloquially as the Little Tom Fool, but it is apparently most closely related to the very widely distributed Dusky-capped Flycatcher (Myiarchus tuberculifer). Three species of Myiarchus flycatchers are present on Jamaica, of which the present species is the smallest and is generally easily identified on that basis alone. The bird’s plumage is rather typical of the genus as a whole, but is notable for the rather dark crown (which aligns it with the Dusky-capped Flycatcher) and the relative lack of rufous in the tail and wings. The Sad Flycatcher is found in both lowland and montane forests throughout the island, where it is usually common.

Jamaica.

Not globally threatened (Least Concern). Restricted-range species: present in Jamaica EBA. Common and widespread. Not known whether recent habitat change has constricted the species’ range. In Jamaica, 75% of original forest cover already eliminated, and remaining forest largely second growth; undisturbed forest survives only on high mountain slopes, some of which are protected in the Blue Mountain and John Crow National Park, but hunting and habitat destruction continue because of lack of funds for protection and management. Resurgence in coffee cultivation since 1980s led to clearance of much second growth; other problems include hurricane damage, widespread pesticide use, timber removal, deliberate fires, and continuing conversion for small-scale farming and urbanization.