The genus Empidonax is a group of small insect-eating passerine birds in the tyrant flycatcher family, the Tyrannidae.
Most of these birds are remarkably similar in plumage: olive on the upper parts with light underparts, eye rings and wing bars. In the nesting season, they may be distinguished by range, habitat and call; in other situations, particularly on migration and in winter, it may not be possible to be sure of specific identification.
Empidonax flycatchers often flick their wings and tails rapidly.
