The masked water tyrant is a species of bird in the family Tyrannidae, the tyrant flycatchers. It is found in Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and as a vagrant to Uruguay and Paraguay.
Region
Eastern and northeastern South America
Typical Environment
Most common in northeastern and eastern Brazil, where it frequents coastal lagoons, mangroves, riverbanks, marshes, and urban parks near water. It also uses open sandy shores and saltpans, as well as rice paddies and pasture edges. Local occurrences extend into adjacent parts of Paraguay and northern Argentina, with occasional vagrants recorded elsewhere in the southern cone. The species tolerates moderate human disturbance and often occurs in towns along waterways.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The masked water tyrant is a striking, mostly white flycatcher that patrols the edges of water, often wagging its tail as it forages. It readily uses human-altered habitats such as parks, rice fields, and urban waterfronts. In Brazil it is popularly known as the “lavadeira-mascarada” (masked washerwoman) for its crisp white plumage and brisk movements.
Temperament
bold and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats, low over water
Social Behavior
Often seen in pairs or small loose groups along shorelines and open wetlands. Nests are typically placed low in shrubs, marsh vegetation, or human structures close to water. Both parents attend the nest and defend a small territory during breeding.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are sharp, chipping calls and short twittering phrases delivered from low perches. Alarm notes are brisk and scolding, often given while tail-wagging.
Plumage
Crisp white body with contrasting black wings and tail; neat, smooth plumage that appears sleek and clean.
Diet
Primarily captures small insects such as flies, beetles, and ants by sallies from low perches and quick runs on open ground. It may also glean prey from shorelines and vegetation and occasionally takes small aquatic arthropods. Opportunistic foraging is common around human-made water bodies.
Preferred Environment
Feeds along muddy or sandy edges of rivers, ponds, marshes, saltpans, and mangroves. Frequently forages in urban parks, gardens near water, and agricultural fields like rice paddies.
