Coopmans's tyrannulet is a species of bird in the family Tyrannidae, the tyrant flycatchers. It is found in Colombia and Venezuela.
Region
Northern Andes
Typical Environment
Occurs in the foothills and lower montane forests of northeastern Colombia and adjacent northwestern Venezuela. It favors humid and cloud-forest habitats with abundant epiphytes, including forest edges, clearings with tall trees, and well-developed secondary growth. Most foraging takes place in the mid-story to canopy, where it gleans small arthropods from foliage. It adapts moderately well to lightly disturbed habitats and edges, provided tall forest structure remains.
Altitude Range
400–1800 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Coopmans's tyrannulet is a recently recognized cryptic species split from the Golden-faced Tyrannulet complex based largely on distinctive vocalizations. It is named in honor of the field ornithologist Paul Coopmans. This tiny canopy flycatcher often travels with mixed-species flocks, where its soft calls can be the easiest way to detect it. Subtle plumage makes voice and behavior especially important for identification.
Temperament
active and somewhat inconspicuous
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with brief sallies
Social Behavior
Usually found singly or in pairs, often joining mixed-species flocks in the canopy and edges. Pairs maintain small territories and communicate with high, thin calls. Nesting is presumed to involve a small cup or domed structure placed in foliage, as in close relatives, with biparental care likely.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Gives very high-pitched, sibilant whistles and thin tseet notes, often in short, evenly spaced series. The song is simple but distinctive in cadence and pitch compared to related Zimmerius species.
Plumage
Olive-green upperparts with slightly brighter edgings on the wings and tail; underparts yellowish to yellow-olive with paler throat. Wings show two narrow, pale yellowish wingbars and dusky flight feathers edged olive. Overall plumage is clean and smooth, lacking bold streaking.
Diet
Feeds mainly on small arthropods such as tiny beetles, flies, and caterpillars gleaned from leaves and twigs. It occasionally makes short sallies to snatch aerial prey. Small fruits or berries may be taken opportunistically, especially in the dry season.
Preferred Environment
Forages in the mid-story to canopy of humid forest, edges, and tall second growth with a continuous foliage layer. Frequently accompanies mixed-species flocks along forest margins and along roads or trails with overhanging vegetation.
