The northern scrub flycatcher is a species of bird in the family Tyrannidae, the tyrant flycatchers. It is found in Aruba, Bonaire, Colombia, Costa Rica, Curaçao, French Guiana, Guyana, Panama, Suriname, Trinidad, and Venezuela.
Region
Northern South America and southern Central America
Typical Environment
Occurs from Costa Rica and Panama through coastal Colombia and Venezuela, the Guianas, and on Trinidad and the ABC islands (Aruba, Bonaire, Curaçao). It frequents mangrove edges, coastal scrub, thorny dry forests, and second-growth thickets. It also uses riverine scrub and forest edges, especially in lowlands. The species is typically local but can be fairly common where suitable scrubby habitat persists.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This small tyrant flycatcher favors mangroves, coastal scrub, and dry thickets where it forages by short sallies and quick gleaning. It often pumps or flicks its tail while perched, a helpful behavior for identification. Its plain olive-brown plumage can make it easy to overlook, but its sharp call notes often reveal its presence.
Temperament
discreet and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with quick sallies
Social Behavior
Usually solitary or in pairs, maintaining small territories in scrubby habitats. Nests are typically open cups placed low to mid-level in dense shrubs or small trees. Both parents participate in territory defense and feeding of young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are simple, with sharp chip notes and short dry trills delivered from exposed perches. Songs are repetitive and carry well in open scrub, often given at dawn and early morning.
