What is the typical foraging strategy employed by the insectivorous Willow Flycatcher within its habitat?
Answer
Short, rapid sallies from a low perch within dense cover
The Willow Flycatcher employs a foraging technique perfectly suited to the dense, brushy environment it inhabits. Its diet consists predominantly of insects, which it acquires through a behavioral pattern known as sallying. This involves launching a quick, short flight—a rapid sally—from a concealed, low-level perch to capture flying insects, before immediately returning to the cover of the dense thicket. This strategy minimizes exposure in open areas while maximizing access to insects within their preferred brushy niches.
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