The rufous-headed pygmy tyrant is a species of bird in the family Tyrannidae, the tyrant flycatchers. It is found in Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru with at least one record in Venezuela.
Region
Andes Mountains
Typical Environment
Occurs in humid montane and cloud forests of the Andes from Colombia south through Ecuador and Peru into Bolivia, with at least one record in western Venezuela. It favors dense, mossy understory, forest edges, and gullies, often near streams. Regularly uses bamboo (Chusquea) and vine tangles for foraging and cover. Most frequently detected by voice in dim, shaded habitats where it can be hard to see.
Altitude Range
1200–3000 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A tiny, understory tyrant flycatcher of Andean cloud forests, the rufous-headed pygmy tyrant is easily recognized by its rich rufous head contrasting with olive body plumage. It often flicks its tail and makes short sallies from low, shaded perches to snatch small insects. The species is typically secretive, staying close to mossy ravines and bamboo thickets. Its distinctive head color makes it one of the easier pygmy-tyrants to identify when seen well.
Temperament
shy and skulking
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with brief, low sallies
Social Behavior
Typically found singly or in pairs, sometimes accompanying mixed-species flocks in the understory. Nests are usually small, mossy cups placed low in dense vegetation or near ravines. Pair bonds are maintained through soft calls and close-range foraging.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Gives thin, high-pitched whistles and soft tsee or seep notes, often in short series. Vocalizations are subtle and easily overlooked amid insect noise of cloud forests.
