Tweeters,

Ellen and I had the good fortune of comparing both Alder and Willow
Flycatcher at Moose Marsh (indeed full of moose) in in British Columbia's
Mt. Robson Provincial Park the morning of 10 June. This marsh has a long
history (at least since 1974) of having both Willow and Alder Flycatcher
nesting very close to each other. I'd have to say that to my ear "fitz-bew"
of the Willow Flycatcher can be pretty darn close to "way-bee-o" of the
Alder. A useful additional feature to discern a singing birds call notes.
If one spends any amount of time in their breeding area, these feisty birds
seem to utter their call notes. The Willow goes "whit," very much like Dusky
or Least Flycatchers. The Alder goes "beek," close to Pygmy Nuthatch and
Hammond's Flycatcher. I found this a very useful additional distinguishing
feature. So, if you're confused whether your bird is "fitz-bewing" or
"way-bee-ooing," I 'd suggest listening for a call note.

Sincerely,

Andy Stepniewski
Wapato WA
steppie at nwinfo.net