Dinelli's doradito is a Near Threatened species of bird in subfamily Elaeniinae of family Tyrannidae, the tyrant flycatchers. It is found in Argentina, Bolivia, Paraguay, and possibly Brazil.
Region
Gran Chaco and adjacent wetlands
Typical Environment
Occurs in northern and central Argentina, eastern Bolivia, Paraguay, and possibly adjacent southwestern Brazil. It inhabits freshwater marshes, reedbeds, and seasonally flooded grasslands with tall emergent vegetation such as Typha, Scirpus, and rushes. Birds often keep low in dense cover, venturing to exposed reed tops to sing or sally for prey. Local distribution can shift with water levels, and the species may vanish from sites that dry out or are heavily disturbed.
Altitude Range
0–1200 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Dinelli's doradito is a small, marsh-dwelling tyrant flycatcher that often stays hidden in dense reeds, making it easier to detect by its thin, buzzy calls than by sight. It depends on intact wetlands with tall sedges and rushes, and is sensitive to drainage and burning of marshes. The species' subtle plumage can be confused with other doraditos, so voice and habitat are key identification clues.
Temperament
secretive and skulking
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with low, fluttering hops between reed clumps
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly or in pairs during the breeding season, defending small territories within dense marsh vegetation. Nests are placed low among reeds or sedges, woven from fine plant fibers and grasses. Outside breeding, may occur in small loose groups in suitable wetlands.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a thin, buzzy series of high-pitched notes and short trills delivered from exposed reed tops. Calls include sharp tseet and soft ticking notes, often given repeatedly and useful for locating birds hidden in cover.
Plumage
Olive-brown upperparts with yellow underparts and paler throat; two faint, pale wingbars on dusky wings; subtly streaked or shaded crown and nape.
Diet
Feeds primarily on small insects such as flies, beetles, and other arthropods gleaned from reed stems and leaves. It also makes short sallies to snatch airborne prey above the water or between reed gaps. Foraging is methodical and close to cover, minimizing exposure to predators.
Preferred Environment
Forages within dense stands of cattails, sedges, and rushes, often just above the waterline or along reed edges. Uses emergent perches to scan for prey and to make brief aerial sorties.
