This phoebe is instantly recognized by its stark black and white pattern, peaked hind crown, and tail bobbing. The upperparts, head, breast, and sides are black. The belly and undertail coverts are white. Wing feathers show indistinct pale edges. At close range, note the white outer web of the outermost tail feathers. Juveniles have rufous feather edges on the wing coverts, back, and rump.

Length: 15 (cm) Wingspan: 27 (cm)

Voice:

Song is a series of high paired whistles: see-see, tsit-soo. Call is a loud tseew. Calls almost constantly.

Habitat:

Ocean cliffs, stream banks, riparian corridors, parks, and other areas near water.

Behavior:

Often flicks tail upward, usually perches low in vegetation or on a dead limb overhanging water.

Feeding:

Flycatches. Also takes insects from foliage and small fish from surface of the water.