The slender-footed tyrannulet is a species of bird in the family Tyrannidae, the tyrant flycatchers. It is found in Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and Venezuela.
Region
Amazon Basin
Typical Environment
Occurs in lowland tropical moist forests across parts of Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and Venezuela. Prefers terra firme and seasonally flooded (várzea) forest, as well as edges, clearings, and secondary growth near mature forest. Most frequently found in the mid to upper canopy, where dense foliage provides foraging cover. It can also appear along river corridors and in disturbed forest mosaics.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A tiny canopy flycatcher of the Amazon Basin, the slender-footed tyrannulet often travels with mixed-species flocks, making brief sallies to snatch small insects. It was historically lumped with the Guianan tyrannulet but is now treated as a separate species. Its thin, high-pitched whistles are more often heard than the bird is seen in the leafy canopy.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually seen in pairs or small family groups and commonly joins mixed-species flocks in the canopy. Territorial displays are subtle, relying on vocalizations and brief chases. Nests are small cup structures placed on slender branches or within leafy cover during the breeding season.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Gives thin, high-pitched whistles and sibilant tsee notes, often in short series. Vocalizations are frequent at dawn and help reveal its presence high in the foliage.
