The pale-tipped inezia, or pale-tipped tyrannulet, is a species of bird in the family Tyrannidae, the tyrant flycatchers. It is found in Brazil, Colombia, French Guiana, Guyana, Suriname, and Venezuela.
Region
Northern South America
Typical Environment
Occurs across northeastern South America, including much of the Guianas, northeastern Brazil, eastern Colombia, and Venezuela. It is most frequently found in mangroves, riverine woodlands, edges of humid lowland forest, and second growth. The species also uses scrubby thickets near water and gallery forests. It tends to stay in mid to upper levels, moving restlessly through foliage.
Altitude Range
0–1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The pale-tipped inezia (also called the pale-tipped tyrannulet) is a tiny tyrant flycatcher that often joins mixed-species flocks in lowland forests and mangroves. Its name refers to the contrasting pale tips on the tail feathers, which can flash when it flicks or fans the tail. It forages actively by gleaning and making short sallies for small insects in the midstory and canopy.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually seen in pairs or small family groups and frequently associates with mixed-species flocks. Likely monogamous, nesting as a pair; builds a small cup nest concealed in foliage. Territorial calls are given while foraging and during pair contact.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Gives thin, high-pitched tsip and tsee notes, often in short series. Song is a soft, rapid, slightly buzzy trill or sequence of high chips, carrying modestly within the canopy.
Plumage
Olive to gray-olive upperparts with paler, slightly yellowish underparts and faint dusky streaking limited or absent. Wings show pale buffy wingbars and edging. The tail has distinct pale tips that are noticeable when fanned.
Diet
Feeds mainly on small insects and other arthropods, gleaned from leaves, twigs, and vine tangles. It also makes short sallies to snatch flying prey. Occasional small fruits may be taken opportunistically, but animal prey predominates.
Preferred Environment
Forages in mangroves, riparian edges, and secondary woodland, especially in midstory and subcanopy. Often follows mixed flocks through semi-open foliage along forest margins.
