The southern bentbill is a species of bird in the family Tyrannidae, the tyrant flycatchers. It is found in Colombia and Panama.
Region
Chocó–Darién region
Typical Environment
Occurs from eastern Panama into northwestern Colombia, primarily in humid lowland and foothill forests. It favors dense understory, vine tangles, forest edges, and second growth, often near streams. The species forages at low to mid-levels, typically below the midstory. It adapts moderately to selectively logged forests but is sensitive to extensive deforestation.
Altitude Range
0–1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The southern bentbill is a small tyrant flycatcher with a characteristically short, strongly arched bill that gives it a distinctive profile. It keeps to dense understory tangles where it is more often heard than seen, giving high, thin calls. It frequently joins mixed-species flocks in lowland rainforest. Its subtle olive plumage makes it well camouflaged in leafy habitats.
Temperament
shy and skulking
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats through the understory
Social Behavior
Usually found singly or in pairs, moving methodically through dense foliage. Often accompanies mixed-species flocks of understory insectivores. Nests are placed low in dense vegetation; both parents likely share in rearing the young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Gives high, thin tseet or seep notes, often delivered in short series. The song is soft and ventriloquial, making the bird hard to locate. Occasional weak trills or doubled notes are interspersed with single calls.
