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The European pied flycatcher (Ficedula hypoleuca) is a small passerine bird in the Old World flycatcher family. One of the four species of Western Palearctic black-and-white flycatchers, it hybridizes to a limited extent with the collared flycatcher. It breeds in most of Europe and across the Western Palearctic. It is migratory, wintering mainly in tropical Africa. It usually builds its nests in holes on oak trees. This species practices polygyny, usually bigamy, with the male travelling large distances to acquire a second mate. The male will mate with the secondary female and then return to the primary female in order to help with aspects of child rearing, such as feeding.
The European pied flycatcher is mainly insectivorous, although its diet also includes other arthropods. This species commonly feeds on spiders, ants, bees and similar prey.
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These birds are denizens of deciduous woodlands, parks, and gardens, showing a preference for oak trees. They are adept at utilizing tree holes for nesting and can adapt to open-fronted nest boxes provided by conservation efforts.
The European pied flycatcher boasts a broad range, extending across Europe and the Western Palearctic. It is a migratory species, wintering in tropical Africa. Subspecies are distributed across various regions, from the UK and Scandinavia to the Iberian Peninsula and Russia.
The species exhibits a mixed mating system of monogamy and polygyny, with males often seeking a second mate after the primary female lays eggs. Males may assist with child-rearing duties for the primary mate, and occasionally for the secondary mate if proximity allows.
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The male's song is a distinctive feature of oak woodlands in spring, described as loud, rhythmic, and melodious. It serves as a beacon during the breeding season, attracting mates and asserting territory.
Breeding takes place from June to August, with the species producing one brood per season. Nesting occurs in tree holes, and clutch size can range from 4 to 10 eggs.
The Atlas pied flycatcher, found in the mountains of northwest Africa, was once considered a subspecies but is now classified separately. The collared flycatcher is a similar species with which the European pied flycatcher may hybridize to a limited extent.
