The greater wagtail-tyrant is a species of bird in the family Tyrannidae, the tyrant flycatchers. It is found in Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, and Paraguay.
Region
South America
Typical Environment
Occurs in dry lowland regions of Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, and Paraguay. It frequents thorn scrub, open woodland edges, dry river margins with dense undergrowth, and semi-arid shrublands such as the Gran Chaco and parts of the Caatinga. The species tolerates lightly degraded scrub and pastures with scattered bushes. It forages close to the ground to mid-shrub level, often near open patches and along fencelines.
Altitude Range
0–1500 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A small, long-tailed tyrant flycatcher, the greater wagtail-tyrant constantly pumps and fans its tail, a behavior that inspired its name. It favors dry, scrubby habitats like the Gran Chaco and Caatinga, where it forages low in bushes and cacti. Pairs often keep close contact with sharp calls and may perform brief duets. Some populations show regional differences that have prompted taxonomic discussion.
Temperament
active and alert
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with brief, low sallies
Social Behavior
Usually found singly or in pairs, maintaining small territories within scrubby habitats. Pairs keep close contact and can be quite inquisitive, moving through shrubs with frequent tail-wagging. Nests are placed low in dense or thorny vegetation, where both adults participate in care.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A series of thin, high-pitched chips and trills interspersed with quick rattles. Pairs may engage in responsive duets, and contact calls are sharp and metallic.
Plumage
Plain gray-brown to olive-brown upperparts with a pale throat and lightly yellow-washed underparts; long, graduated tail often cocked and wagged. Tail is dark with conspicuous whitish edges and tips. Shows a clear whitish supercilium and a slightly darker line through the eye; wings are rather plain with minimal barring.
Diet
Feeds primarily on small insects and other arthropods such as beetles, ants, and small flies. It gleans from foliage and twig tips, and also makes short sallies to snatch prey from the air. Occasionally takes prey from the ground or low branches.
Preferred Environment
Forages in dense, low shrubs, thorn scrub, and along edges of open areas, including fencelines and dry streambeds. Often works near cover, moving methodically through bushes and cacti.
