The ochraceous attila is a Near-threatened species of bird in the family Tyrannidae, the tyrant flycatchers. It is found in Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru.
Region
Tumbes–Chocó–Magdalena
Typical Environment
Occurs in humid lowland and foothill forests on the Pacific slope of western Colombia, western Ecuador, and extreme northwestern Peru. It favors mature forest, tall secondary growth, and edges near streams or clearings. Birds typically use the understory to midstory, keeping to shaded interior and semi-open borders. It tolerates some disturbance but declines sharply with extensive deforestation and fragmentation.
Altitude Range
0–800 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The ochraceous attila is a robust tyrant flycatcher of humid lowland forests, often remaining quiet and hidden while watching for prey from shaded perches. Its rich ochre plumage and heavy hooked bill help distinguish it from other flycatchers in its range. Habitat loss in the Chocó and western Ecuador–northwest Peru lowlands is its main threat. It often reveals itself by a series of mellow, whistled notes rather than by showy behavior.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with brief sallies
Social Behavior
Usually encountered alone or in pairs, often sitting motionless and then making short lunges to seize prey. Breeding pairs defend territories and place open cup nests concealed in vegetation. Parental care is shared, and young remain in dense cover soon after fledging.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Delivers a series of clear, mellow whistles, often descending in pitch and repeated at intervals from a concealed perch. Calls include sharp notes and short phrases given at dawn and in overcast conditions.
Plumage
Mostly uniform, warm ochraceous to rufous-buff plumage with slightly paler underparts and duskier wings and tail; feathering appears smooth and unbarred.
Diet
Takes large insects such as beetles, katydids, and caterpillars, supplemented by spiders and occasional small vertebrates like lizards or small frogs. It also consumes some forest fruits and berries, especially when insect prey is less abundant. Prey is captured by sallying from a perch, gleaning from foliage, or pouncing to the ground.
Preferred Environment
Feeds in shaded understory to midstory along forest edges, clearings, and stream margins. It prefers structurally complex, humid forest with perches that provide good vantage points.
