Lulu's tody-flycatcher, also known as Johnson's tody-flycatcher, is a species of bird in the family Tyrannidae, the tyrant flycatchers. It is endemic to Peru.
Region
Northern Peruvian Andes
Typical Environment
Occurs in humid montane cloud forests, especially along edges, clearings, and secondary growth with dense understory. Often associated with Chusquea bamboo and mossy thickets, where it forages low to mid-levels. It also uses roadside tangles and forest gaps created by landslides. The species is patchy and local within suitable habitat, reflecting its specialized preferences.
Altitude Range
1600–2400 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Lulu's tody-flycatcher, also called Johnson's tody-flycatcher, is a tiny Andean tyrant flycatcher restricted to a small area of northern Peru. It frequents humid montane forest edges and bamboo thickets, where it actively gleans insects in pairs or small family groups. Ongoing deforestation in its narrow range has made it a conservation priority. Birders often seek it around the Abra Patricia pass and Alto Mayo area.
Temperament
active and somewhat secretive
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually found singly, in pairs, or small family parties; occasionally joins mixed-species flocks in the understory. It forages by gleaning and short sally-gleans among bamboo and vine tangles, frequently flicking its tail. Nests are likely small, well-concealed pouch or cup-like structures placed low in dense vegetation, with a small clutch.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Gives thin, high-pitched whistles and short trills, often delivered from low perches within dense cover. Calls are soft tsit notes, sometimes accelerating into a brief series when agitated.
