San Diego Year Bird #171: Vermilion Flycatcher

Vermilion Flycatcher. Escondido, California. February 16, 2014. Greg Gillson.

Unlike most drab flycatchers that are exceedingly difficult to tell apart, this little bird is an amazing hurt-your-eyes fiery red-orange color--yes, vermilion. The scientific name is Pyrocephalus rubinus, which means 'red fire-head.'

In fact, the bright red plumage, especially the crown, is quite fluffy, intensifying the appearance of flames. I am afraid the camera cannot catch the proper hue--the red is so intense that it is overexposed on the camera and not brilliant enough red--but you get the idea from these photos.