This species is nearly identical to Willow Flycatcher. Alder and Willow Flycatchers were once considered the same species, Traill's Flycatcher. The two are best distinguished by voice. Upperparts are olive, with darker grayish tones on head. The blackish wings show two whitish wing bars and fairly long primary projection. The whitish eye ring is very narrow. The white throat contrasts with the dark face. The bill is long and broad, with a completely pinkish-yellow lower mandible. The breast is washed with olive, while the belly is washed yellowish. This species is in fresh plumage in the spring, becoming faded and worn by mid-summer. Juvenile shows buffy wing bars.

Length: 13 (cm) Wingspan: 20 (cm)

Voice:

Song is a buzzy free-BEER, or slurred fee-BEE-o, sometimes resembling a wolf whistle. Call is a strong pip.

Habitat:

Brushy areas, woodland edges, bogs.

Behavior:

Typically utilizes low perches.

Feeding:

Forages for insects by flycatching and gleaning. Takes small fruit on wintering grounds.