The Choco elaenia or Choco grey elaenia is a species of bird in subfamily Elaeniinae of family Tyrannidae, the tyrant flycatchers. It is found in Colombia, Ecuador, and Panama.
Region
Chocó biogeographic region (western Colombia, northwestern Ecuador, eastern Panama)
Typical Environment
Inhabits humid lowland and foothill evergreen forests, forest edges, and tall secondary growth. It forages along edges, clearings, and riparian corridors where sunlight creates rich insect activity. The species is most frequently encountered in the midstory to canopy but will descend to edges and gaps. It tolerates some disturbance and can persist in older secondary forests near intact tracts.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
The Choco elaenia is a subtle, canopy-edge flycatcher of the humid Chocó biogeographic region. It often joins mixed-species flocks, making brief sallies to snatch small insects from foliage. Its muted plumage is offset by crisp pale wingbars and a narrow eyering that aid identification. Habitat loss in the Chocó lowlands may impact local populations despite its broad regional range.
Temperament
active but unobtrusive
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with brief sallies from perches
Social Behavior
Usually found singly, in pairs, or as part of mixed-species foraging flocks. Nests are small, cup-shaped structures placed on horizontal forks in shrubs or small trees. Breeding pairs defend a modest area around the nest while foraging more widely in adjacent edges.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A soft, high-pitched series of thin whistles and squeaky notes, often delivered from semi-concealed perches. Calls include short chips and seep notes that can be easily overlooked in noisy forest environments.
