The Eastern Kingbird earns its name for its bold demeanor and dedication to its territory. A stout songbird that commands attention with its striking appearance, the Eastern Kingbird sports a black head, back, and tail, contrasted by a crisp white underbelly and a distinct white band on the tail. This species exudes elegance in simplicity and can be found in the open woodlands and prairies of Faville Grove, and in similar habitats throughout all of Wisconsin. A good place to observe them at Faville Grove is around the outlying trees of the Ledge Upland Prairies, where their chaotic aerial maneuvers make for entrancing flashes of black and white. Feeding primarily on insects such as beetles, flies, and grasshoppers, the Eastern Kingbird hunts from perches or in mid-air—swooping, hovering, and snatching prey with remarkable precision. Whether catching flies or warding off intrusive blue jays and cowbirds, the Eastern Kingbird does it in style.
An Eastern Kingbird wards off a Red-tailed Hawk in mid-air (photo by Arlene Koziol).
The Eastern Kingbird possesses a feisty temperament, particularly when it comes to defending their nests and foraging territories. Known for aerial acrobatics, this species fearlessly confronts much larger birds that encroach upon their domains, including hawks and crows. With swift, darting flights and aggressive vocalizations, they send a clear message: trespassers beware. During the breeding season, Eastern Kingbirds form monogamous pairs, with both partners collaborating to build a cup-shaped nest made of twigs, grass, and other plant materials, situated in the upper branches of trees or shrubs.
Despite facing the same threats of habitat loss as other bird species, the Eastern Kingbird has maintained a stable population across its range. Their adaptability to various habitats and ability to coexist with human activities have contributed to their resiliency in the face of environmental changes.
Written by Tucker Sanborn, Faville Grove Sanctuary land steward
Cover photo by Courtney Celley/USFWS. An Eastern Kingbird with black and white plumage perched on the edge of a branch of an oak tree.
