Habitat:
deciduous forests, mixed forests, wooded areas

Activity period :
Primarily active during the day, with peak activity in the morning and late afternoon.

Identification and description:
The Eastern Wood-Pewee, or Contopus virens, is a small passerine bird belonging to the Tyrannidae family. It is primarily found in the deciduous and mixed forests of North America, where it is recognized for its melodious and repetitive song. Modest in size, it features an olive-gray plumage on its back and lighter on its belly, with wings slightly barred with white. This migratory bird winters in Central and South America. It mainly feeds on insects, which it catches in flight with its skilled aerial acrobatics. The Eastern Wood-Pewee is often solitary and vigorously defends its territory during the breeding season. Although its habitat is threatened by deforestation, it is currently classified as Least Concern by the IUCN.

Recommended lens:
400 mm – adjust based on distance, desired framing (portrait or habitat), and approach conditions.

Photography tips:
To photograph the Eastern Wood-Pewee, it is advisable to use a 400mm lens or longer to capture precise details without disturbing the bird. Look for it in deciduous or mixed forests, especially at sunrise or sunset when the light is soft and flattering. Be patient and discreet, as this bird is suspicious and may fly away at the slightest alert. Use a tripod to stabilize your camera and achieve sharp images, especially when shooting in low-light conditions.