The mottle-backed elaenia is a species of bird in subfamily Elaeniinae of family Tyrannidae, the tyrant flycatchers. It is found in Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru.
Region
Western Amazon Basin and Andean foothills
Typical Environment
Occurs from southern Colombia through eastern Ecuador and Peru to northern Bolivia, mainly along the Andean foothills and adjacent upper Amazonia. It favors humid to wet forest edges, secondary growth, and semi-open woodland with scattered trees. Birds are most often encountered in the midstory to canopy, including along riverine corridors and landslide or gap edges. It tolerates some disturbance and often uses regenerating habitats near primary forest.
Altitude Range
300–1800 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A subtly marked tyrant flycatcher, the mottle-backed elaenia is often identified more easily by voice than by looks. Its mottled upperparts and strong whitish wingbars help separate it from similar elaenias in Andean foothill forests. Like many elaenias, it frequently flicks its wings and tail while foraging and gives nasal, wheezy phrases that carry through the midstory.
Mottle-backed elaenia at Garzacocha, Sucumbios, Equador
Temperament
quiet and somewhat shy, often unobtrusive
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with brief sallies from perches
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly or in pairs, sometimes accompanying mixed-species flocks in the midstory. Builds a small cup nest placed on horizontal forks or dense foliage. Pairs defend small territories during the breeding period but may range more widely when feeding.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Voice is a series of nasal, wheezy phrases and plaintive whistles, often delivered from a semi-exposed perch. Calls include short, buzzy notes and thin tseet contact calls, repeated at intervals.
