The brown-capped tyrannulet is a species of bird in subfamily Elaeniinae of family Tyrannidae, the tyrant flycatchers. It is found in Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Panama, and Venezuela and reported for the first time in Nicaragua in 2011.
Region
Central America and northern South America
Typical Environment
Occurs from southern Central America (Costa Rica, Panama, with records in Nicaragua) into northern South America including Colombia, Venezuela, and western Ecuador. It favors the mid to upper canopy of lowland and foothill forests, forest edges, second growth, and semi-open woodlands. Often found along rivers, clearings with tall trees, and in plantations with shade trees. It tolerates moderately disturbed habitats and commonly joins mixed-species flocks in the canopy.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A tiny canopy flycatcher, the brown-capped tyrannulet is often detected by its high, thin calls rather than seen. It actively gleans and sallies for insects among outer foliage, frequently joining mixed-species flocks. Its namesake brown crown helps separate it from similar greenish tyrannulets. The species is widespread in Central America and northern South America and is considered not globally threatened.
Temperament
active and somewhat inconspicuous
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with brief sallies from perches
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly or in pairs in the canopy, often accompanying mixed-species flocks outside of breeding. During breeding it remains in pairs, with both adults participating in parental care. Nests are well concealed in foliage high in trees.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Gives high, thin tseep notes and short, airy trills from the canopy. Phrases are often delivered in quick series, sounding delicate and slightly sibilant. Vocalizations are a key cue to its presence in dense foliage.
Plumage
Compact, olive-green upperparts with a distinct brown cap; whitish throat and breast with a slight yellow wash on the belly; two narrow pale wingbars; short tail and stubby bill.
Diet
Primarily small insects and other arthropods, taken by gleaning from leaves and twigs or by short sallies to snatch prey in flight. It often hovers briefly to pick items from outer foliage. Occasional consumption of tiny fruits or berries may occur but is uncommon.
Preferred Environment
Forages mostly in the mid to upper canopy along forest edges, light gaps, and secondary growth. Frequently works outer foliage layers and tall isolated trees in semi-open landscapes.
