The chocolate-vented tyrant is a species of bird in the family Tyrannidae, the tyrant flycatchers. It is found in Argentina, Chile, and Uruguay, possibly in Paraguay, and as a vagrant to Brazil.
Region
Southern South America
Typical Environment
Breeds mainly in southern Argentina and Chile across the Patagonian steppe and open scrub. In the nonbreeding season it shifts north into central Argentina and Uruguay, with occasional records in Paraguay and as a vagrant to southern Brazil. It favors expansive grasslands, open pastures, and shrub-steppe with scattered perches such as fence posts. Avoids dense forests and prefers open, windswept terrain. Often found near ranchlands and roadside margins where prey is abundant.
Altitude Range
0–1500 m
Climate Zone
Temperate
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Named for its dark, chocolate-colored vent and undertail coverts, this tyrant flycatcher often perches conspicuously on fence posts in open country. It breeds in the windswept Patagonian steppe and moves north in winter to the pampas and nearby lowlands. Like many tyrants, it hunts by sallying from perches to snatch insects on the wing or from the ground.
Temperament
alert and watchful
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with brief glides
Social Behavior
Breeds in solitary pairs that defend open territories. Outside the breeding season it may form loose, small groups in open fields. Nests are usually cup-shaped and placed low in shrubs or in sheltered tussocks; both parents care for the young.
Migratory Pattern
Seasonal migrant
Song Description
Vocalizations are simple and somewhat harsh, consisting of sharp chips and dry trills. Calls are given from exposed perches and during brief aerial sallies.
Plumage
Mostly gray-brown above with paler, whitish underparts and a distinct dark, chocolate-brown vent and undertail coverts. Tail appears dark with contrasting paler edges, and the throat can show a cleaner whitish tone. Overall appearance is clean and pale with a sharp contrast at the vent.
Diet
Primarily feeds on insects such as beetles, flies, grasshoppers, and other arthropods. It often drops to the ground to seize prey or sallies out to catch flying insects. Occasionally takes small berries when insects are scarce.
Preferred Environment
Open grasslands, steppe, and lightly shrubby areas with scattered perches like fence lines and posts. Frequently forages along pasture edges and road verges where prey is concentrated.
