The Patagonian tyrant is a species of bird in the family Tyrannidae, the tyrant flycatchers. It is found in Argentina and Chile.
Region
Southern South America
Typical Environment
Breeds in temperate forests of southern Chile and Argentina, including Patagonia and Tierra del Fuego. In the non-breeding season, it disperses north into central Chile and western/central Argentina. It occupies Nothofagus and mixed temperate woodlands, forest edges, second growth, and shrubby clearings. The species often uses areas with dense bamboo understory and wooded riparian corridors.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1500 m
Climate Zone
Temperate
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The Patagonian tyrant is a small austral flycatcher of southern South America and the sole species in its genus. It favors temperate Nothofagus (southern beech) forests and often forages quietly in the understory. After breeding in far southern Chile and Argentina, many individuals move northward within the region for the austral winter. Its unobtrusive habits and soft calls can make it easy to overlook.
Temperament
quiet and unobtrusive
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with brief sallies from low perches
Social Behavior
Typically seen singly or in pairs, especially during the breeding season. It builds a small cup nest placed in shrubs or low trees, with both parents involved in care. Outside the breeding season, it may join loose mixed-species flocks while foraging in the understory.
Migratory Pattern
Seasonal migrant
Song Description
Song is a soft series of thin, high-pitched whistles delivered from a low perch. Calls include delicate tseet notes and short, dry ticks. Vocalizations are modest in volume and can be hard to detect in dense understory.
Plumage
Olive-brown upperparts with a slightly grayer head and pale, lightly washed underparts. The throat is whitish to pale gray, and the wings show faint, diffuse bars. Tail and wings are dusky with subtle edging; overall plumage is soft-toned and lacks bold contrast.
Diet
Primarily consumes small insects such as flies, beetles, and caterpillars. Forages by sallying from perches to catch aerial prey and by gleaning from foliage and twigs. Occasionally takes small spiders and may sample tiny berries when insects are scarce.
Preferred Environment
Feeds in the lower to mid-levels of temperate forest, especially along edges, light gaps, and bamboo thickets. Frequently uses semi-open understory near streams and clearings where insects are abundant.
