The sierran elaenia is a species of bird in subfamily Elaeniinae of family Tyrannidae, the tyrant flycatchers. It is found in Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru.
Region
Andes Mountains
Typical Environment
Occurs along the Andean slopes of Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and into Bolivia. It is most often found in montane cloud forests, elfin forest, and at forest edges, as well as in secondary growth and shrubby clearings. The species readily uses riparian thickets and bamboo patches and can persist in moderately disturbed habitats. Local movements may occur along elevation gradients, but populations are largely resident within their ranges.
Altitude Range
1500–3500 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This Andean flycatcher is often identified by voice because several elaenia species look very similar. It frequents edges and second growth, making it more visible than many forest specialists. Sierran elaenias perform short sallies from perches to catch insects and will also take small fruits, especially in the cool season.
Temperament
active and somewhat inconspicuous
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with quick sallies
Social Behavior
Typically seen singly or in pairs, often foraging from low to mid-level perches along edges. It may join mixed-species flocks in suitable habitat. The nest is a small cup placed in shrubs or trees; both adults participate in parental care.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a series of thin, high-pitched whistles and brief trills, often delivered from a concealed perch. Calls include sharp chips and buzzy notes, useful for separating it from similar elaenias.
Plumage
Olive-green upperparts with a slightly peaked crest, grayish head and breast, and paler yellowish to whitish underparts toward the belly. Two pale wingbars and dusky wings with contrasting edges; throat usually pale. Overall appearance is plain but with crisp wingbars and a faint eye ring.
Diet
Takes flying insects such as flies and beetles on short aerial sallies, and also gleans caterpillars and other arthropods from foliage. Supplements its diet with small fruits and berries, especially when insect abundance is lower. Feeding is opportunistic and often centered on edge vegetation where prey is abundant.
Preferred Environment
Forages along forest edges, in secondary growth, shrubby clearings, and riparian thickets. Frequently uses perches with open sightlines to launch short flights after prey.
