The brown-winged schiffornis, or brown-winged mourner, is a species of Neotropical bird in the family Tityridae, the tityras, becards, and allies. It is found in Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia. Ecuador, Peru, and Venezuela.
Region
Amazon Basin
Typical Environment
Inhabits lowland and foothill humid forests across the western and central Amazon, including Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and Venezuela. Prefers mature terra firme forest but also uses várzea, tall secondary growth, and forest edges with dense understory. Typically occupies the shaded lower to mid-story where visibility is limited. Often found near vine tangles and along quiet stream courses.
Altitude Range
0–1000 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Long treated as part of the ‘thrush-like schiffornis’ complex, it was split after vocal and genetic studies revealed multiple cryptic species. Its rich, mournful song carries far through dense forest and is often the best way to detect it. Schiffornis are members of the Tityridae, a Neotropical family that includes tityras and becards.
Temperament
solitary and retiring
Flight Pattern
short, direct flights with rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Most often encountered alone or in pairs inside dense forest. Occasionally joins mixed-species flocks moving through the understory and mid-story. Nests are typically delicate, suspended or cup-like structures placed low to mid-level in shaded vegetation. Both parents are thought to contribute to care of the young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A rich, mournful series of clear whistles, often descending or with a plaintive quality, repeated at intervals. Calls are simple but far-carrying, serving as a primary means of detection in dense habitat.
Plumage
Plain, soft-textured plumage with olive-brown to brownish-olive body and warmer brown wings; unpatterned and subtly shaded.
Diet
Takes a variety of arthropods, including beetles, caterpillars, and spiders, by gleaning from leaves and branches. Also eats small fruits and berries, especially when insect prey is less available. Forages methodically, making short sallies to snatch prey and returning to shaded perches.
Preferred Environment
Feeds in the lower to mid-story of humid forest, particularly in areas with vine tangles and dense foliage. Often forages along quiet forest trails and stream corridors where cover remains thick.
