The ash-breasted tit-tyrant is an vulnerable species of bird in subfamily Elaeniinae of family Tyrannidae, the tyrant flycatchers. It is found in Bolivia and Peru.
Region
Central Andes
Typical Environment
Occurs patchily in the high Andes of southern Peru and western Bolivia, primarily in remnant Polylepis woodlands and adjacent montane scrub. It favors gnarled, open-canopy elfin forests on steep slopes and along ravines, often within a matrix of puna grassland. The species uses woodland edges and interior, frequently moving through mid to upper canopy in search of arthropods. Its range is highly fragmented due to the scarcity of intact Polylepis stands.
Altitude Range
3000–4600 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A highly active, crested tyrant flycatcher that behaves much like an Old World tit, constantly flicking its tail and wings while foraging. It is closely tied to high-elevation Polylepis woodlands of the central Andes, habitats that have been severely fragmented by woodcutting and burning. Conservation actions often focus on Polylepis restoration and protection, which directly benefits this species.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Typically found in pairs or small family groups and often joins mixed-species flocks in Polylepis. Pairs are territorial during breeding and build a small cup nest concealed in dense branches. Likely monogamous, with both adults participating in care.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
High, thin, and buzzy trills interspersed with sharp tseet notes. Males often deliver songs from exposed perches near the canopy, with rapid, energetic pacing that matches their foraging style.
Plumage
Compact, spiky-crested flycatcher with ashy-gray underparts and grayer breast, dusky to dark gray head, and darker olive-gray upperparts. Shows two crisp white wingbars and pale edging on the tail. Feathers often appear slightly fluffy in cool, high-elevation conditions.
Diet
Primarily hunts small arthropods, gleaning insects and spiders from leaves and twigs and making short sallies to snatch prey mid-air. Frequently hover-gleans along outer foliage and probes bark crevices in gnarled Polylepis branches. Occasionally supplements with other small invertebrates depending on availability.
Preferred Environment
Forages in mid to upper strata of Polylepis woodlands, woodland edges, and adjacent scrub. Utilizes complex branch structure and foliage density to search systematically for prey and often follows mixed flocks to exploit disturbed insects.
