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.
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
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
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.
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.
Plumage
Olive-brown upperparts with a slightly darker head and a small, often flattened crest; grayish throat and breast grading to a rich yellow belly. Wings and tail show warm rufous tones, especially on the inner webs of primaries and tail feathers. Overall appearance is a typical Myiarchus: clean gray front, yellow underparts, and rufous in wings/tail.
Diet
Primarily aerial and arboreal insects, captured by sallying from a perch and occasionally gleaned from foliage. Also consumes small fruits and berries, especially in the non-breeding season or when insects are less abundant. Prey includes beetles, flies, grasshoppers, and other medium-sized arthropods.
Preferred Environment
Feeds along forest edges, clearings, riparian strips, and savanna woodlands where open airspace and exposed perches are available. Frequently uses midstory and canopy perches that provide good vantage points.
