The sooty-crowned flycatcher is a species of bird in the family Tyrannidae, the tyrant flycatchers. It is found in Ecuador and Peru.
Region
Pacific lowlands of Ecuador and northwest Peru
Typical Environment
Occurs in the Tumbesian dry to semi-humid zone from southwestern Ecuador into northwestern Peru. It inhabits tropical dry forest, moist lowland forest, gallery forest, and forest edge, as well as semi-open second growth and plantations. The species favors areas with scattered tall trees for perching and sallying. It persists in moderately degraded habitats but declines where large trees are removed. Riparian corridors in dry landscapes are especially important refuges.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
A medium-sized tyrant flycatcher of the Tumbesian region, the sooty-crowned flycatcher is often identified by its dusky cap and warm rufous in the tail and wings. Like many Myiarchus, it can be tricky to separate from relatives, but its combination of a sooty crown, gray breast, and pale yellow belly is distinctive in its range. It perches upright, flicks its tail, and sallies out to catch flying insects from exposed midstory perches.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with quick sallies from exposed perches
Social Behavior
Typically seen singly or in pairs, defending small territories with prominent perch-and-sally behavior. Breeding pairs nest in tree cavities or similar holes, often reusing suitable sites year to year. They may join mixed-species flocks briefly while foraging but generally remain independent.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Gives sharp, whistled notes and burry phrases, often a repeated wheet or peeer delivered from high perches. Dawn song is more insistent, with a series of clear whistles interspersed with rough chatters.
