The rufous-breasted chat-tyrant is a species of bird in the family Tyrannidae, the tyrant flycatchers. It is found in Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and Venezuela.
Region
Andes Mountains
Typical Environment
Occurs along the Andes from Venezuela through Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru to Bolivia. Favors cloud forest edges, elfin forest, shrubby clearings, and second-growth with nearby tall perches. Regular along streams, landslides, and roadcuts where vertical banks and open perches are plentiful. Often associated with bamboo (Chusquea) patches and mossy understory near treeline.
Altitude Range
1800–3800 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This Andean flycatcher often perches upright on exposed twigs at forest edges, making short sallies to snatch insects. Its bright rufous underparts contrast with a slaty head and back, helping with quick field identification. Despite preferring intact montane forest edges, it tolerates disturbed habitats and roadsides. The name “chat-tyrant” reflects its chat-like posturing combined with typical tyrant flycatcher hunting behavior.
Temperament
alert and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid sallies from exposed perches
Social Behavior
Usually solitary or in pairs, maintaining small territories along forest edges and streams. Nest is a cup placed on ledges, earthen banks, or among roots and mossy walls. Both parents participate in provisioning the young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Gives sharp ticking chat-like calls and short squeaky whistles from exposed perches. Song is a brief series of thin trills and notes, repeated intermittently, especially at dawn.
