The pileated flycatcher is a species of bird in the family Tyrannidae, the tyrant flycatchers. It is endemic to Mexico.
Region
Western and Central Mexico
Typical Environment
Occurs in subtropical and tropical dry forest, pine–oak woodland, and semi-open second growth with scattered trees. It frequents forest edges, ravines, coffee and shade plantations, and scrubby hillsides. Birds typically use the lower to mid canopy and sheltered clearings, often near watercourses. It tolerates moderate habitat degradation but persists best where native trees remain.
Altitude Range
600–2100 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A small tyrant flycatcher with a distinctive pointed crest, the pileated flycatcher is endemic to Mexico. It favors forest edges and lightly disturbed habitats where it sallies from low perches to catch insects. Its thin, sibilant calls often reveal its presence before it is seen. Though adaptable to secondary growth, it still relies on patches of native woodland.
Temperament
quiet and unobtrusive
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with quick sallying flights
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly or in pairs, maintaining small territories during the breeding season. Pairs are presumed monogamous, and both adults feed the young. Outside breeding, it may loosely associate with mixed-species flocks in suitable edge habitats. Nests are an open cup placed low to mid-canopy in dense foliage.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a soft series of thin, high-pitched whistles and trills delivered from a shaded perch. Calls include sharp, sibilant tseet notes that carry in quiet forest edges.
Plumage
Small, slim flycatcher with olive-brown upperparts and pale grayish to buff underparts, often with a slight wash across the breast. Shows two pale wingbars and a narrow, pale eyering. The erect, pointed crest on the crown is diagnostic.
Diet
Feeds mainly on small flying and foliage-dwelling insects such as flies, beetles, leafhoppers, and caterpillars; also takes small spiders. It employs perch-and-sally tactics, snatching prey in short flights and occasionally gleaning from leaves. Foraging is typically low to mid-level within the canopy or along edges where insects are abundant.
Preferred Environment
Most often forages along forest edges, clearings with scattered trees, shaded plantations, and scrubby ravines. It favors perches with good sightlines into sunlit gaps, often near water or along trails.
