The snowy-throated kingbird is a species of bird in the family Tyrannidae, the tyrant flycatchers. It is found in Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru.
Region
Northwest South America (Pacific slope and adjacent foothills)
Typical Environment
Occurs from southwestern Colombia through western Ecuador into northwestern Peru, most frequent in lowlands and foothills. It favors forest edges, river margins, mangroves, and semi-open country with scattered trees. It also uses second-growth woodland, agricultural mosaics, and clearings near humid and semi-deciduous forests. The species is commonly seen along roadsides and riparian corridors where perches are abundant.
Altitude Range
0–1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The snowy-throated kingbird is a medium-sized tyrant flycatcher noted for its strikingly white throat contrasting with gray upperparts and yellow underparts. It frequently perches conspicuously on exposed branches or wires and sallies out to catch flying insects. Pairs are territorial during breeding and often return to favored perches. Its tolerance of edges and second growth helps it persist in moderately modified landscapes.
South of Guayaquil, Ecuador
Temperament
alert and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with frequent sallies from exposed perches
Social Behavior
Typically seen singly or in pairs, especially during the breeding season when territories are defended. Nests are open cups placed on exposed or semi-exposed branches in trees. Outside breeding, small loose groups may form in rich feeding areas. Courtship includes aerial chases and calling from prominent perches.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations include sharp, buzzy chips and short chatters delivered from high perches. At dawn it may give a more insistent series of harsh, twitting phrases. Calls carry well across open habitats.
Plumage
Smooth gray head and upperparts with darker wings edged pale; throat and upper breast clean, snowy white contrasting with brighter yellow belly.
Diet
Primarily captures flying insects such as beetles, flies, wasps, and winged termites. It launches from a perch to hawk prey in mid-air, often returning to the same lookout. It may also glean insects from foliage and occasionally take small berries when insect activity is low.
Preferred Environment
Feeds along forest edges, riparian zones, and clearings where flight corridors are open. Frequently uses fencerows, tall snags, and wires to scan for prey.
