The bay-ringed tyrannulet is a species of bird in the family Tyrannidae, the tyrant flycatchers. It is found in Argentina, Brazil, and Paraguay.
Region
Atlantic Forest of southeastern South America
Typical Environment
Occurs in humid evergreen and semi-deciduous Atlantic Forests of southeast Brazil, eastern Paraguay, and northeastern Argentina (Misiones). Most frequently uses mid to upper canopy strata in interior forest and along mature edges. Also persists in older secondary growth and well-wooded ravines. It often follows mixed-species flocks, moving methodically through foliage to glean prey. Avoids highly degraded habitats and open country.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1500 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A small Atlantic Forest tyrant-flycatcher, it is often found in the mid to upper canopy, where it joins mixed-species flocks. Its name refers to the distinctive bay (rufous) eye-ring that contrasts with otherwise greenish plumage. It is sensitive to forest fragmentation and is more frequent in well-preserved or mature secondary forests. Often detected by its thin, high-pitched calls before it is seen.
Temperament
active and restless
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with brief sallies
Social Behavior
Frequently forages in pairs or small family groups and commonly integrates into mixed-species canopy flocks. Breeding pairs maintain small territories during the austral spring and summer. Nests are likely small cups placed on slender forks or suspended in foliage, with both parents participating in care.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song and calls are thin, high-pitched tseet and see notes delivered in brief sequences, often given repeatedly from mid-canopy perches. Vocalizations can accelerate into a short, delicate trill. The sound carries poorly, making it easier to detect at close range in quiet forest.
Plumage
Olive-green upperparts with yellow-washed underparts and two pale buff wingbars; neat, clean-lined feathering with fine streaking or suffusion on the breast. The face shows a distinct bay (rufous) orbital ring and a subtle pale supercilium. Wings are dusky with pale edging; tail is olive with slightly darker centers.
Diet
Feeds primarily on small arthropods, including caterpillars, beetles, hemipterans, and small spiders. It gleans prey from leaf surfaces and undersides, probes clusters of new leaves, and makes short sallies to snatch flushed insects. Foraging is deliberate yet continuous, often synchronized with the movements of mixed-species flocks to exploit disturbed prey.
Preferred Environment
Mid to upper canopy of humid forest, especially along edges of mature forest and in well-structured secondary growth. Uses vine tangles, epiphyte-laden branches, and dense foliage where insects concentrate.
