Short-crested flycatcher

The short-crested flycatcher is a species of bird in the tyrant flycatcher family Tyrannidae. It is found in every mainland South American country except Chile.

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Distribution

Region

South America

Typical Environment

Occurs broadly from Colombia and Venezuela through the Amazon Basin and the Guianas, east and south across much of Brazil, and into eastern Bolivia, Paraguay, and northern Argentina; absent from Chile. It inhabits forest edges, gallery forests, second growth, savanna with scattered trees, riparian corridors, and semi-open agricultural mosaics. Also adapts to parks and plantations where suitable perches and cavities exist. Generally a lowland species with local upslope records.

Altitude Range

0–1500 m

Climate Zone

Tropical

Characteristics

Size19–21 cm

Wing Span28–32 cm

Male Weight0.032 kg

Female Weight0.029 kg

Life Expectancy6 years

Ease of Keeping

Beginner friendly: 1/5

Useful to know

A widespread tyrant flycatcher found across most of mainland South America except Chile, the short-crested flycatcher favors edges and open woodlands. Like many Myiarchus, it often nests in natural cavities and has been noted to incorporate shed snake skins into its nest lining. It is a sit-and-sally predator that frequently returns to the same exposed perch.

Gallery

Behaviour

Temperament

alert and moderately territorial

Flight Pattern

short rapid wingbeats with frequent sallies from exposed perches

Social Behavior

Typically seen singly or in pairs, especially during the breeding season when pairs defend a small territory. Nests are placed in tree cavities, fence posts, or similar holes; like other Myiarchus, it may line the nest with snake skin. Clutch size is small and both sexes participate in defense and care.

Migratory Pattern

Resident

Song Description

Vocalizations include sharp, whistled phrases and burry, descending notes delivered from prominent perches. Calls are emphatic 'wheep' or 'prreeep' notes, often repeated and interspersed with chatters during territorial exchanges.

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Identification

Comb Type

Plumage Description

Feather Color

Leg Color

Earlobe Color

Eye Color

Feeding Habits

Diet

Preferred Environment

Requires Supplement

Population

Conservation Status

Species Status

Wild Population

Total Known Population

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