The rufous-sided scrub tyrant, or rufous-sided pygmy-tyrant, is a species of bird in the family Tyrannidae. It is found in Bolivia, Brazil, Paraguay, and Suriname.
Region
South-central South America
Typical Environment
Occurs patchily in open and semi-open habitats, especially cerrado, scrubby savannas, and the edges of dry forests. It also uses second-growth thickets, gallery-forest margins, and shrubby grasslands with scattered trees. In Brazil it is widespread in the cerrado belt; populations also occur in eastern Bolivia, Paraguay, and localized savanna enclaves reaching the Guianas. It typically forages from near ground level up to the mid-story, favoring areas with dense low shrubs. Human-altered mosaics with secondary scrub can be used if sufficient woody cover remains.
Altitude Range
0–1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A tiny member of the tyrant flycatchers, the rufous-sided scrub tyrant (also called rufous-sided pygmy-tyrant) is active but often inconspicuous as it forages in low scrub. Its name refers to the warm rufous edges on the wings that show as a rufous panel along the sides. It often travels in pairs or small family groups and may join mixed-species flocks in open woodlands and savannas.
Temperament
active and somewhat skulking
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with brief, low sallies
Social Behavior
Usually found singly, in pairs, or small family groups, and occasionally joins mixed-species foraging parties. Pairs maintain small territories with low-to-mid foraging. Nest is presumed a small cup placed low in shrubs or small trees. Breeding is likely monogamous with both adults attending young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are thin, high-pitched tsee and tsip notes, often given in quick series. The song is a soft, rapid, tinkling trill or a short sequence of sharp notes repeated at intervals, carrying modestly in scrubby habitats.
