The Andean laniisoma is a species of passerine bird in the family Tityridae, the tityras, becards, and allies. It is found Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and Venezuela.
Region
Andes Mountains
Typical Environment
Occurs on the humid slopes of the Andes in Bolivia, Peru, Ecuador, Colombia, and Venezuela. It inhabits mature and tall secondary cloud forests, especially in the mid- to upper canopy and along forest edges and ravines. The species favors areas with dense epiphytes and fruiting trees. It is generally local and uncommon, often detected by its soft, mournful whistles rather than by sight.
Altitude Range
800–2200 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Formerly lumped with the Elegant Mourner, the Andean laniisoma is now treated as a separate species in the family Tityridae. It is a shy canopy bird of humid Andean forests and is often overlooked due to its quiet, unobtrusive behavior. The genus name alludes to a shrike-like build, though this species feeds primarily by gleaning rather than predation.
Temperament
solitary and inconspicuous
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with direct, low canopy flights
Social Behavior
Typically forages alone or in pairs high in the canopy, occasionally joining mixed-species flocks. Nests are placed well above ground on horizontal branches in dense foliage. Displays are subdued; pair bonding and territory maintenance rely on quiet calls and short pursuits.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Gives soft, plaintive, whistled notes that may descend slightly in pitch and carry poorly through dense foliage. Calls are spaced and mellow, often the only clue to its presence.
Plumage
Olive-green upperparts with a contrasting grayer head and mantle, and yellow to yellow-olive underparts; wings and tail darker with subtle edging. Females are generally duller and more uniformly olive, with less contrast on the head. Plumage appears smooth and semi-glossy in good light, with limited patterning.
Diet
Takes a mix of small fruits and arthropods, including beetles, caterpillars, and other insects. Gleans methodically from foliage and twigs, occasionally sallying to snatch prey in short flights. Seasonal fruit availability likely influences its reliance on plant versus animal matter.
Preferred Environment
Feeds in the mid- to upper canopy of humid montane forests, often along edges, gaps, and fruiting trees. It favors areas with abundant epiphytes and mossy branches for gleaning.
