The Great Kiskadee is impossible to miss at Valley Nature Center. With its brilliant yellow belly, bold black-and-white striped head, and loud "kis-ka-DEE!" call, this large flycatcher is one of the most charismatic birds of the Rio Grande Valley. It perches conspicuously throughout VNC, diving for insects, small fish, berries, and even small lizards.
Year-Round ResidentEasy to SpotColorfulLoud
About This Bird
Did You Know?
The Great Kiskadee is one of the few flycatchers known to dive for fish — it will plunge into water like a kingfisher to catch small fish near the surface.
Field Notes
Diet
Insects, fish, berries, small lizards
Range
Texas to South America
Nesting
Dome-shaped nest with side entrance
Social
Pairs or small family groups
Call
Loud "kis-ka-DEE!" repeated
Tolerance
Year-round Valley resident
Birding Tips at VNC
- Listen for the "kis-ka-DEE!" call — one of the easiest birds to identify by ear
- Look for it perching on open branches, fences, or wires
- Check near the VNC wetland boardwalk where it dives for fish
- The rufous wings are visible in flight — a useful field mark
See These Birds in Person
Valley Nature Center is open Tue–Fri 9am–4pm, Sat 9am–5pm, Sun noon–5pm. Admission $3–$6. Members free.
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