The black-backed tody-flycatcher is a species of bird in the family Tyrannidae, the tyrant flycatchers. It is endemic to Peru.
Region
Northwest Peru
Typical Environment
Occurs in the Tumbesian region of northwest Peru, favoring dry to semi-humid forest edge, second growth, and dense scrub. It is most often found in tangled understory, riparian thickets, and viney or bamboo-like stands where it forages at low heights. The species may also use semi-open mosaics near cultivation if dense hedgerows or thickets persist. It avoids extensive open areas and very tall closed-canopy forest.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1000 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A tiny tyrant flycatcher endemic to Peru, it frequents dense thickets and forest edge where it can be surprisingly hard to see. It often reveals itself by a thin, high-pitched series of notes while actively gleaning insects at low to mid levels. Like many tody-flycatchers, it builds a hanging, pouch-like nest with a side entrance. Habitat loss in Peru’s northwest dry forests can affect local populations.
Temperament
active and furtive
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with quick dashes between perches
Social Behavior
Usually in pairs or small family groups, maintaining small territories in dense understory. The nest is a pendant, purse-shaped structure with a side entrance, suspended low to mid-level in thick vegetation. Pairs are thought to be monogamous during the breeding season and show coordinated foraging.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Gives thin, high-pitched notes and brief trills, often delivered in rapid series. The voice is insect-like and can be ventriloquial, making the bird easier to hear than to see.
