What is the rapid flight maneuver used by Willow Flycatchers to intercept airborne prey called?
Answer
Sallying
Sallying is the specific term used to describe the key hunting style employed by the Willow Flycatcher, which is a classic member of the tyrant flycatcher family. This maneuver involves the bird waiting patiently on an exposed perch, spotting an insect target in the surrounding air, and then executing a short, quick flight to intercept that fast-moving aerial prey mid-flight. After capture, the flycatcher immediately returns to its original perch to consume the meal. This technique is essential for securing agile targets like adult flies.
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