Oustalet's tyrannulet is a species of bird in the family Tyrannidae, the tyrant flycatchers. It is endemic to Brazil.
Region
Atlantic Forest, southeastern Brazil
Typical Environment
Occurs in evergreen and semi-deciduous Atlantic Forest, including forest edges and well-vegetated secondary growth. Most often found from the lower slopes to montane foothills, where it forages in the midstory and canopy. It regularly associates with mixed flocks, moving through continuous forest and along riparian corridors. Presence is strongly tied to intact or moderately disturbed forest cover, and it becomes scarce in heavily fragmented habitats.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1500 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Oustalet's tyrannulet is a small, active foliage-gleaner of Brazil’s Atlantic Forest, where it frequents the midstory and canopy. It often joins mixed-species flocks, darting between leaves to pick insects. Although still relatively widespread for an Atlantic Forest endemic, it is sensitive to habitat loss and fragmentation. Its subtle green-and-yellow plumage and soft, high-pitched calls make it easy to overlook.
Phylloscartes oustaleti Smit 1887
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with quick darts between perches
Social Behavior
Commonly travels in pairs or small family groups and frequently joins mixed-species flocks. Breeding pairs defend small territories within suitable forest. The nest is a small open cup placed in concealed vegetation. Both parents participate in caring for young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Gives thin, high-pitched sequences of tsee and tzip notes, often delivered in short series. Calls are soft and can be easily masked by ambient forest noise, aiding its inconspicuous nature.
Plumage
Olive-green upperparts with yellowish wash below and clean, pale underparts toward the belly; two neat whitish wingbars and fine pale edging to the wing coverts. A subtle pale supercilium and faint eyering contrast with a slightly duskier ear patch. Feathers appear smooth and compact, suited to quick maneuvering in foliage.
Diet
Primarily feeds on small arthropods such as insects and spiders, gleaned from leaves and twigs. Employs hover-gleaning and short sallies to snatch prey from foliage. Occasionally takes tiny berries when insect prey is scarce, but animal prey dominates.
Preferred Environment
Forages in the midstory to canopy of mature forest and well-structured secondary growth. Frequently works along edges, vine tangles, and riparian vegetation, often moving with mixed flocks.
