How is the eye-ring typically described for the Willow Flycatcher compared to the Acadian Flycatcher?
Answer
indistinct, weak, or sometimes entirely lacking
The eye-ring is a crucial feature in distinguishing various *Empidonax* species, but in the Willow Flycatcher, it is often a feature that is underwhelming or confusingly faint. The species characteristically possesses an eye-ring described as indistinct, weak, or it may sometimes be entirely lacking a noticeable whitish ring. This lack of a strong ring is a key point of differentiation, as other similar species, such as the Acadian Flycatcher, possess a distinct pale yellowish eye-ring. The visibility of this subtle feature is also highly dependent on the season and the wear of the plumage.
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