The spectacled tyrant is a species of bird in the family Tyrannidae, the tyrant flycatchers. It is found in Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Paraguay, Uruguay, and as a vagrant to Peru.
Region
Southern Cone of South America
Typical Environment
Occurs in Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil (south), Chile, Paraguay, and Uruguay, with occasional vagrants to Peru. Favors freshwater marshes, reedbeds, bulrush stands, wet meadows, rice fields, and pampas grasslands near water. Often found along the margins of lakes, ponds, and slow-moving rivers where emergent vegetation provides perches. Tolerates moderately altered landscapes if wetland structure remains intact. In winter some populations disperse more broadly into adjacent lowland wetlands and damp grasslands.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 2500 m
Climate Zone
Temperate
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Named for the male’s bold white eye ‘spectacles,’ the spectacled tyrant is a striking marsh-dwelling flycatcher. Males are conspicuous, often perching atop reeds and flashing a white wing patch in display flights, while females are much browner and more cryptic. It hunts by sallying from exposed perches to snatch flying insects over wetlands. The species occurs across southern South America and is partially migratory, shifting northward in the austral winter.
Temperament
alert and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with quick sallies; conspicuous white wing flash in flight
Social Behavior
Typically seen singly or in pairs, often perched prominently on reeds or fenceposts. Breeding pairs establish territories in marshes and nest low among dense emergent vegetation. The cup-shaped nest is placed in reeds or grasses over shallow water. Both parents participate in caring for the young.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
Song is a series of thin, whistled notes and tinkling phrases delivered from an exposed perch. Calls include sharp ticks and chatters, often given during short display flights. Vocalizations carry well over open wetlands.
