Acadian Flycatcher (Empidonax virescens)

Status in Canada: Endangered

Status in Ontario: Endangered

Status at SWCR: Rare breeding bird

The Acadian Flycatcher is a small migratory songbird. In Canada, it breeds mostly in the Carolinian Forest Zone in southwestern Ontario.

Quick Facts:

It is a rare breeding bird in Canada but has nested at both the Nursery Tract and the Turkey Point Tract.
Acadian Flycatcher requires large areas of undisturbed forest with a closed canopy and open understory.
Their delicate cup nests are constructed in the fork of horizontal branches.

Threats at the St. Williams Conservation Reserve:

Habitat loss and Degradation: Acadian Flycatchers are sensitive to alterations in their environment, particularly changes in the canopy closure of the forest.

Activities that can damage Acadian Flycatcher habitat include:

Tree removal that eliminates the closed canopy conditions needed by this species.
Activities that can introduce or encourage the growth of invasive plants, such as dumping of garden waste and off-trail ATV use.
Activities that change the water regime in the woodlands.

Beneficial management activities at St. Williams Conservation Reserve:

Population monitoring
Invasive plant control
Enforcement of unauthorized trail use

What you can do to help the Acadian Flycatcher:

Follow the code of conduct for recreational activities in the Conservation Reserve and know and respect the current trail-use regulations.
Clean your boots, bicycle tires, or ATV before and after visiting the SWCR or other natural areas to avoid spreading invasive plant seeds.
Report sightings to the SWCR CC, Bird Studies Canada (1-888-448-2473), or the Natural Heritage Information Centre.
Report unauthorized trail use or any illegal activity related to plants and wildlife to 1-877-TIPS-MNR (847-7667).