The southern tropical pewee is a small passerine bird in the family Tyrannidae, the tyrant flycatchers. It is found in Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, and Paraguay.
Region
South America
Typical Environment
Occurs widely from the southern Amazon and adjacent lowlands into southeastern South America, including Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, and Paraguay. Most frequent in forest edges, second growth, gallery forests, and semi-open woodlands. It also uses riparian corridors, shaded plantations, and savanna edges with scattered trees. Often perches in the midstory or at canopy gaps where aerial insects are abundant.
Altitude Range
0–1800 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A small tyrant flycatcher, the southern tropical pewee hunts by sallying out from exposed perches to snap flying insects. It often flicks its tail and returns to the same perch after short, darting flights. The species is sexually monomorphic, making voice and behavior useful for identification. Its thin, whistled phrases carry well at forest edges and clearings.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with quick sallies
Social Behavior
Typically seen alone or in pairs, defending small feeding territories, especially during breeding. Nests are small open cups placed on horizontal forks or exposed branches. The pair cooperates in territory defense; the male often sings from a prominent perch.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A thin, whistled series of pee-wee or seee notes, delivered in spaced phrases. Calls include sharp chips and soft buzzes, often given from an exposed perch.
