The sooty-headed tyrannulet is a species of bird in subfamily Elaeniinae of family Tyrannidae, the tyrant flycatchers. It is found in Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, French Guiana, Guyana, Panama, Peru, Suriname, and Venezuela.
Region
Central America and northern South America
Typical Environment
Occurs from eastern Panama through northern South America, including the Guianas, Venezuela, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and northern Brazil, extending into Suriname, Guyana, and French Guiana. Favors edges of humid lowland forests, gallery forests, second-growth woodland, and tall scrub. It is commonly encountered along rivers, clearings, and in semi-open woodlands with scattered trees. Often forages in the mid-story to canopy, especially where foliage is dense.
Altitude Range
0–1500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A tiny tyrant flycatcher, the sooty-headed tyrannulet is an active foliage-gleaner that often joins mixed-species flocks in forest edges and second growth. Its dusky-gray head contrasts with olive upperparts and yellowish underparts, helping separate it from similar small tyrannulets. It frequently flicks its wings and tail while foraging and gives thin, high-pitched calls. The species is widespread from Panama through the Guianas and Amazonian margins and is considered of low conservation concern.
Sooty-headed tyrannulet, Copa Linga Lodge, Ecuador
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually in pairs or small family groups, commonly joining mixed-species foraging flocks. Nests are typically small cups concealed in foliage at low to mid-heights. Both adults participate in foraging near the nest and may share parental duties. Territoriality is modest, with soft call notes used to keep contact.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Gives thin, high-pitched notes and short, squeaky trills that can be easily overlooked among forest sounds. Calls are rapid and repeated, often delivered while foraging. The song is simple and high, lacking the rich phrases of larger flycatchers.
