The lesser elaenia is a species of bird in subfamily Elaeniinae of family Tyrannidae, the tyrant flycatchers. It is found in Costa Rica, Panama, on Trinidad, in every mainland South American country except Chile and Uruguay, and as a vagrant on Bonaire and Curaçao.
Region
Neotropics
Typical Environment
Occurs from southern Central America (Costa Rica, Panama) through Trinidad and broadly across mainland South America except Chile and Uruguay. Prefers open and semi-open habitats including savannas, forest edges, second growth, and gallery woodlands. It readily uses river edges, shrubby clearings, plantations, and even urban parks with scattered trees. Local movements may follow seasonal resource availability, but many populations are resident year-round.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1800 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A small tyrant flycatcher, the lesser elaenia is often identified more reliably by voice than by plumage, as many elaenias look alike. It tolerates human-altered landscapes such as pastures and edges, where it perches conspicuously to sally for insects. Its simple, squeaky phrases are a helpful field clue across its broad range.
Temperament
active but unobtrusive
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with frequent short sallies
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly or in pairs, often perching at mid-levels to scan for prey. Will join mixed-species foraging flocks in some regions. Nests are small open cups placed in forks or on horizontal branches in shrubs or small trees; both parents attend young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a series of thin, squeaky notes or short phrases, often given from exposed perches. Calls include sharp chips and a rising, slightly buzzy cue. Vocalizations are simple but distinctive within its local community of elaenias.
