The Sierra de Lema flycatcher or Tepui flycatcher is a species of bird in the tyrant flycatcher family Tyrannidae. It is found in Brazil, Guyana, and Venezuela.
Region
Guiana Shield tepuis
Typical Environment
Occurs on and around the tepuis of southeastern Venezuela, western Guyana, and adjacent northern Brazil. Favors humid montane and submontane evergreen forests, especially along slopes, ravines, and forest edges near tepui foothills. Often uses midstory to lower canopy strata with dense foliage and scattered open perches. Locally common where suitable montane forest persists but patchily distributed due to the fragmented tepui landscape.
Altitude Range
800–1800 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Also known as the Tepui flycatcher, this small tyrant flycatcher is tied to the isolated table mountains (tepuis) of the Guiana Shield. It often perches quietly in the midstory before making quick sallies for insects, and can be confused with Bran-colored Flycatcher but differs in voice and its rufous-tinged tail and wing edging. Its distribution spans the tepuis of Venezuela, adjacent Guyana, and far northern Brazil.
Temperament
quiet and unobtrusive
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with quick sallies from perches
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly or in pairs within the midstory, occasionally joining mixed-species flocks. Territorial during the breeding season and uses repeated perch sites for foraging. Nesting is poorly known but presumed to be a small cup concealed in vegetation, with both adults attending young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are thin, high-pitched whistles and short, simple phrases delivered from shaded perches. Calls include sharp chips and squeaky notes, useful for separating it from similar small flycatchers.
