The sibilant sirystes is a species of bird in the family Tyrannidae, the tyrant flycatchers. It is found in Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, and Paraguay.
Region
Southeastern South America
Typical Environment
Occurs from eastern Bolivia and central to southern Brazil south into Paraguay and northeastern Argentina. It inhabits humid forests, gallery forests, forest edges, and tall secondary growth, usually from the mid-story to the canopy. The species tolerates some fragmentation and can use wooded riparian corridors in more open landscapes. It is most frequently detected by voice in mature or semi-mature forest tracts.
Altitude Range
0–1500 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Often located by its piercing, sibilant whistles, this flycatcher perches high and unobtrusively in mid- to upper-canopy. The name “sibilant” references its characteristic hissing, whistled song. It was formerly treated as part of a wider complex, but vocal and range differences helped split it from related sirystes. As an insect hunter, it likely helps control forest insect populations.
Sirystes sibilator illustration by Joseph Smit, 1888
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with quick sallies from high perches
Social Behavior
Typically seen alone or in pairs, maintaining territories during the breeding season. Pairs are often discreet, staying high in the canopy. Nests are presumed cup-shaped and placed well above ground, with both adults participating in care.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A clear, sibilant series of whistled notes, often rendered as thin, hissing see-see-see or psií-psií phrases. Calls carry far through the forest, making the bird more often heard than seen.
