Long-tailed tyrant

The long-tailed tyrant is a species of bird in the family Tyrannidae, the tyrant flycatchers. It is found in Central America from Honduras to Panama and in every mainland South American country except Chile and Uruguay.

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Distribution

Region

Central and South America

Typical Environment

Occurs from Honduras through Panama and widely across mainland South America except Chile and Uruguay. It favors forest edges, clearings, second growth, and riparian corridors with scattered tall trees or snags. Frequently found near rivers, oxbow lakes, and pastures with remnant trees where it can perch conspicuously. Most populations are sedentary, with local movements tracking food and habitat openings.

Altitude Range

Sea level to 1500 m

Climate Zone

Tropical

Characteristics

Size13–22 cm (longer in males due to tail streamers)

Wing Span23–26 cm

Male Weight0.016 kg

Female Weight0.015 kg

Life Expectancy6 years

Ease of Keeping

Beginner friendly: 1/5

Useful to know

The long-tailed tyrant is the sole member of its genus, Colonia. Males have strikingly elongated tail streamers that are used in display and make the bird unmistakable when perched on exposed snags. It often hunts from high, open perches along forest edges and rivers, sallying out to catch flying insects. Despite its bold look, it is generally quiet and unobtrusive.

Gallery

Behaviour

Temperament

alert and perch-oriented

Flight Pattern

short rapid wingbeats with agile sallies

Social Behavior

Typically seen singly or in pairs, sometimes in small loose groups where suitable perches are abundant. Pairs defend a territory during breeding and use high exposed snags for display and hunting. Nests are placed in natural cavities or old woodpecker holes in dead trees or stubs near forest edges.

Migratory Pattern

Resident

Song Description

Vocalizations are sharp, high-pitched chips and short twitters delivered from prominent perches. Calls are usually brief and infrequent, carrying well over open clearings.

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Identification

Comb Type

Plumage Description

Feather Color

Leg Color

Earlobe Color

Eye Color

Feeding Habits

Diet

Preferred Environment

Requires Supplement

Population

Conservation Status

Species Status

Wild Population

Total Known Population

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