The Guianan schiffornis, also called the olivaceous schiffornis and olivaceous mourner, is a species of Neotropical bird in the family Tityridae, the tityras, becards, and allies. It is found in Brazil, French Guiana, Guyana, Suriname, and Venezuela.
Region
Guiana Shield
Typical Environment
Occurs in humid lowland evergreen forests across northern Brazil north of the Amazon, French Guiana, Guyana, Suriname, and adjacent southeastern Venezuela. Prefers interior terra firme forest and tall secondary growth, often near ravines and stream gullies. It occupies the shaded understory to midstory, where it forages quietly and perches for long intervals. The species avoids open areas and is scarce in heavily disturbed habitats, though it may persist in older secondary forest.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Often heard before it is seen, the Guianan schiffornis gives a haunting series of descending whistles from deep inside shaded forest. It was formerly lumped within the Thrush-like Schiffornis complex and was split based on vocal and genetic differences. It tends to sit motionless for long periods, making visual detection challenging. Its unobtrusive habits help control forest insects.
Temperament
solitary and secretive
Flight Pattern
short, direct flights with rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually forages alone or in pairs and can be territorial during the breeding season. It nests in a simple cup placed low to mid-level in dense vegetation. Both adults are attentive at the nest and feed the young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Delivers a slow series of clear, fluty whistles that often descend in pitch and carry far through the forest. Calls include soft chups and murmured notes, but the drawn-out mournful phrases are most characteristic.
