Region

Northern Andes

Typical Environment

Found in humid montane and cloud forests of the Colombian Andes, especially along edges, secondary growth, and forested ravines. It favors moss-laden trees with abundant epiphytes and often uses forest clearings and roadsides for foraging. The species ranges in the Central and Western Cordilleras, with a patchy distribution tied to intact forest. Fragmentation restricts movements between suitable habitat blocks.

Altitude Range

1500–3000 m

Climate Zone

Highland

Temperament

social and active

Flight Pattern

direct flight with steady, rapid wingbeats; short canopy-to-canopy dashes

Social Behavior

Usually encountered in pairs or small, loose groups that move together while foraging through midstory and canopy. It may join mixed-species flocks along forest edges. Nests are placed in trees or dense vegetation within montane forest, with breeding likely tied to local rainy seasons. Adults exhibit alert sentinel behavior while others forage.

Migratory Pattern

Resident

Song Description

Vocalizations are a mix of harsh grating notes, chatters, and metallic squeaks delivered in short series. Males often call from exposed perches, and groups can produce a noisy chorus during active foraging.

Diet

An opportunistic omnivore feeding on insects, spiders, and other arthropods gleaned from bark, bromeliads, and foliage. It also consumes fruits and berries, especially during periods of high availability. Occasional probing into moss mats and epiphytes yields hidden larvae. It may forage near human-altered edges where fruiting shrubs are common.

Preferred Environment

Forages primarily in montane forest edges, gaps, and along roads or trails where light supports fruiting plants. Frequently uses midstory to canopy strata, but will descend to lower levels to inspect epiphyte-laden trunks.