The little ground tyrant is a species of bird in the family Tyrannidae, the tyrant flycatchers. It is found in Bolivia, Brazil, Peru, possibly in Colombia]], and as a Vagrancy (biology)vagrant in Ecuador.
Region
Western Amazon Basin
Typical Environment
Occurs along major white-water rivers and their seasonally exposed sand and gravel bars in Peru, Brazil, and Bolivia, possibly reaching southern Colombia, with occasional vagrants to Ecuador. It favors open, sparsely vegetated river islands, driftwood-strewn beaches, and early successional scrub. The species tracks the shifting mosaic of riverbars created by fluctuating water levels. It is typically absent from closed forest and human settlements away from large rivers.
Altitude Range
0–600 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The Little Ground Tyrant is a small, terrestrial flycatcher that frequents sandy and gravel riverbars of the western Amazon Basin. It often runs rather than hops, sallying short distances to snatch insects from the ground. Some authorities place it in the genus Muscisaxicola, but many now treat it as the monotypic Syrtidicola. It is locally common where suitable riverine habitat persists and can appear on newly formed islands.
Temperament
alert and terrestrial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats low over the ground
Social Behavior
Usually solitary or in pairs, loosely tolerant of others on expansive riverbars. Nests are placed on or near the ground among sparse vegetation or debris, with both adults attending. Likely monogamous during the breeding season and strongly tied to dynamic riverbar habitats.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Generally quiet; gives thin, high-pitched tseep notes and short twittering bursts. Vocalizations are simple and used for contact and brief territorial displays.
Plumage
Plain sandy-brown to gray-brown upperparts with whitish underparts and a faint buffy wash on the breast; clean white throat. A pale, narrow supercilium contrasts with a duskier ear patch; tail is dark with paler outer edges. Feathers appear smooth and sleek, aiding a neat, understated look.
Diet
Feeds primarily on small terrestrial and aerial insects such as ants, beetles, flies, and small orthopterans. Forages by running across open sand and gravel, picking prey from the surface. Also performs short sallies to seize flying insects just above the ground. May take small spiders and other arthropods opportunistically.
Preferred Environment
Open sandy or gravelly riverbars, the edges of newly formed islands, and areas with low, scattered shrubs and driftwood. Prefers open sightlines with minimal vegetation for spotting ground-dwelling prey.
