Infographic

Ultramarine Flycatcher: Facts, Habitat, and Calls

Read everything you need to know about the stunning Ultramarine Flycatcher. Get a quick, visual summary of key facts, range and migration.
Text by: Kaushik Sarkar Design by: Diviya Mehra
Updated   October 31, 2025
Text by: Kaushik Sarkar Design by: Diviya Mehra
Updated   October 31, 2025
4 min read
Read everything you need to know about the stunning Ultramarine Flycatcher. Get a quick, visual summary of key facts, range and migration.
Everything you need to know about this tiny, but striking bird


Where do ultramarine flycatchers go during different seasons?

In summer (March/April to September), ultramarine flycatchers migrate to the Himalayas for breeding. In winter (October to March), they move down to central and southern India. However, some populations in Northeast India do not migrate.

What kind of habitat do they prefer?

They inhabit forests, woodlands, orchards, and parks, and generally avoid open habitats. During the breeding season, they prefer hilly regions at elevations between 1,800 and 3,200 metres above sea level.

Are there different types of ultramarine flycatchers?

Yes, there are two subspecies:

Ultramarine flycatcher (eyebrowed) (Ficedula superciliaris superciliaris), which has white eyebrows.

Ultramarine flycatcher (eastern) (Ficedula superciliaris aestigma), which lacks the white eyebrows.

How do ultramarine flycatchers find food?

They forage actively in the mid to upper canopy, often flying out from a perch to catch insects mid-air.

When and how do they breed?

Breeding takes place between April and July. They build nests in holes, well hidden by vegetation, and lay 3–4 eggs. Both parents take part in building the nest and incubating the eggs.

About the Authors

Kaushik Sarkar

Kaushik Sarkar

is a wildlife biologist transitioning towards the world of conservation action. He currently works with The Habitats Trust primarily working on the Terai Grasslands Project.