Eastern Phoebe

About the Eastern Phoebe

The Eastern Phoebe is a small, soft-gray flycatcher often found perched on fence posts, branches, or the edges of buildings. With its dark head, pale belly, and upright posture, it frequently pumps its tail up and down while scanning for insects. One of the earliest returning migrants in spring, its simple fee-bee call is a familiar sound across much of the eastern United States.

Fun Facts

• Tail-Wagging Habit: Eastern Phoebes are known for their constant tail pumping while perched — a classic identification clue.
• Early Arriver: They are among the first flycatchers to return in spring, sometimes arriving while snow is still on the ground.
• Loyal Nesters: Phoebes often reuse the same nesting sites year after year, commonly building mud-and-moss nests under bridges, eaves, or ledges.
• Insect Catchers: They hunt by watching from a perch and then darting out to snatch insects midair before returning to the same spot.