The greenish schiffornis is a species of bird in the family Tityridae, the tityras, becards, and allies. It is found in Argentina, Brazil, and Paraguay.
Region
Atlantic Forest of southeastern South America
Typical Environment
Occurs primarily in the humid Atlantic Forest of southeastern Brazil, eastern Paraguay, and northeastern Argentina (e.g., Misiones). It favors mature evergreen and semideciduous forest, but also uses well-developed secondary growth and forest edges with dense understory. Most activity is in the shaded understory to midstory, often along ravines and near streams. It may join mixed-species flocks but is often encountered alone or in pairs. Human-altered fragments can support it if sufficient understory cover remains.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1500 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The greenish schiffornis is a secretive understory bird of the Atlantic Forest and a member of the family Tityridae. Its taxonomic history is complex, with several schiffornis populations split into distinct species based largely on voice. It is best detected by its slow, plaintive whistles rather than by sight. By gleaning insects and taking small fruits, it contributes both to insect control and seed dispersal.
Temperament
solitary and secretive
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats between perches, usually low within forest
Social Behavior
Usually seen alone or in pairs in the understory and midstory. Territorial singing males deliver songs from shaded perches. Nesting is in a cup-like structure placed low to mid-level in dense vegetation; both parents likely participate in care.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a series of slow, mournful, whistled notes, often descending and well-spaced. Calls include soft whistles and simple notes that carry through dense forest. Vocalizations are key for identification within the schiffornis complex.
