The slaty-capped flycatcher is a small passerine bird in the tyrant flycatcher family. It is found from Costa Rica south to Bolivia and east to Venezuela and Trinidad.
Region
Central America and northern South America
Typical Environment
Occurs from Costa Rica and Panama south through the Andes to Bolivia, and east to Venezuela and Trinidad. It inhabits humid tropical and subtropical forests, including edges and well-developed secondary growth. Most often seen in the shaded understory and midstory, especially along streams and in vine tangles. It can persist in selectively logged forests and shade-grown plantations where understory structure remains. Local presence varies with forest continuity and humidity.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 2200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A small tyrant flycatcher of humid forests, it is noted for its slaty-gray cap and bold pale eyebrow, which give it a distinctive face pattern. It forages deliberately in the understory, often joining mixed-species flocks, and frequently gleans insects from foliage rather than pursuing long aerial chases.
Temperament
secretive and methodical
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with brief sallies
Social Behavior
Often found singly, in pairs, or small family groups, and regularly joins mixed-species flocks in the understory. Pairs maintain small territories during the breeding season. The nest is typically a discreet, enclosed or domed structure placed low to mid-level in dense vegetation. Both adults participate in care of the young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are soft, high-pitched whistles and thin tsip notes delivered at intervals. Song phrases are simple and repeated, carrying modestly through dense foliage.
