The maroon-belted chat-tyrant, or chestnut-belted chat-tyrant, is a species of bird in the family Tyrannidae, the tyrant flycatchers. It is found in Bolivia and Peru.
Region
Andes Mountains
Typical Environment
Occurs in humid montane forests, elfin forests, and forest edges with dense moss and bamboo (often Chusquea) in the central Andean slopes of Peru and Bolivia. It favors gaps, clearings, riparian borders, and secondary growth adjacent to mature forest. Birds often work along shaded trails and roadcuts where insects are abundant. While most frequently in intact forest margins, it tolerates some disturbance if understory cover remains.
Altitude Range
2000–3600 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A small Andean flycatcher of cloud-forest edges, it is named for the rich maroon or chestnut band across its upper breast. It frequently flicks its tail and wings while sallying out from perches to catch insects. The species is typically seen alone or in pairs and may join mixed-species flocks along forest borders. Its restricted range spans montane Peru and Bolivia.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with quick sallies
Social Behavior
Usually found alone or in pairs, maintaining small territories along forest edges. Frequently joins mixed-species flocks moving through the midstory. Nests are small cups placed on banks, ledges, or low vegetation; clutch size is typically two.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a series of thin, whistled notes that may accelerate into a short trill. Calls include sharp ticks and high, sibilant tseet notes given during foraging or when alarmed.
Plumage
Slate-gray head and upperparts with a contrasting whitish throat and a distinct maroon to chestnut band across the upper breast; the lower underparts are warmer rufous to cinnamon. Slight dusky mask and a faint pale eyebrow may be visible. Wings and tail are dark with subtle rufous edging.
Diet
Primarily captures small flying insects such as flies, beetles, and moths by sallying from exposed perches. It also gleans arthropods from foliage and mossy branches. Occasional consumption of small berries may occur when insect prey is scarce, but it remains largely insectivorous.
Preferred Environment
Forages along semi-open edges, clearings, and trails within cloud forest and elfin forest. Perches at low to mid levels, often returning repeatedly to favored lookout posts.
