Crested black tyrant

The crested black tyrant is a species of bird in the family Tyrannidae, the tyrant flycatchers. It is found in Brazil, Paraguay, and Uruguay.

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Distribution

Region

South America

Typical Environment

Occurs widely in central and southeastern Brazil, extending into eastern Paraguay and northern Uruguay. It favors open habitats such as cerrado savannas, campos rupestres, dry grasslands, pastures, and rocky outcrops with scattered shrubs or trees. The species readily uses man-made perches like fences and utility wires along roads and ranchlands. Presence in mosaics of scrub and open ground is typical, and it can persist where grazing maintains low vegetation structure.

Altitude Range

Sea level to 1800 m

Climate Zone

Subtropical

Characteristics

Size18–20 cm

Wing Span28–32 cm

Male Weight0.024 kg

Female Weight0.022 kg

Life Expectancy6 years

Ease of Keeping

Beginner friendly: 1/5

Useful to know

This striking flycatcher is often seen perched on fence posts and rocks, making short sallies to catch flying insects. Males are glossy black with an erectile crest and conspicuous white outer tail feathers that flash in flight. It adapts well to open, human-altered landscapes such as pastures and roadsides. The species is common across much of its range and is generally easy to spot due to its conspicuous perching behavior.

Gallery

Behaviour

Temperament

solitary and territorial

Flight Pattern

short rapid wingbeats with quick sallies from perches

Social Behavior

Often seen alone or in pairs, especially during the breeding season when it defends open territories with prominent perches. Courtship includes tail-flicking and crest-raising displays by the male. Nests are small cups placed in sheltered spots such as low ledges or dense shrubs, with both parents participating in care. Outside breeding, it may tolerate loose proximity to other insectivores where food is abundant.

Migratory Pattern

Resident

Song Description

Vocalizations include sharp, metallic chips and dry trrt calls given from exposed perches. The song is a brief series of thin whistles and chatters, often delivered during display with visible crest-raising.

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Identification

Comb Type

Plumage Description

Feather Color

Leg Color

Earlobe Color

Eye Color

Feeding Habits

Diet

Preferred Environment

Requires Supplement

Population

Conservation Status

Species Status

Wild Population

Total Known Population

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Crested coua

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Crested cuckoo-dove

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