Straneck's tyrannulet, also known as the monte tyrannulet and grey-crowned tyrannulet, is a small species of bird in the family Tyrannidae, the tyrant flycatchers. It is found in Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Paraguay, and Uruguay.
Region
Southern South America
Typical Environment
Occurs from central and northern Argentina into Bolivia, Paraguay, Uruguay, and southern Brazil. It favors open woodlands, Chaco and Monte scrub, riparian thickets, and woodland edges. It also uses second-growth, shelterbelts, and shrubby pastures near water. During the non-breeding season it spreads into more northerly lowlands and semi-open habitats.
Altitude Range
0–1800 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Only recently recognized as distinct, this species was long confused with the White-crested Tyrannulet and is best identified by its voice. It is a very active foliage-gleaner that frequently flicks its tail and wings while foraging. Its seasonal movements follow the austral cycle, breeding farther south and moving north in the non-breeding season.
Temperament
active and restless
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with brief sallying flights
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly or in pairs, often joining mixed-species flocks in semi-open woodland. Nests are small cups placed low to mid-level in shrubs or small trees. Pairs defend small territories during breeding and communicate with frequent calls.
Migratory Pattern
Seasonal migrant
Song Description
A distinctive fast, buzzy trill that accelerates and slightly rises, often delivered in short bursts. Calls are sharp, dry chips and ticking notes used frequently while foraging.
Plumage
Small tyrannulet with a gray crown and nape, olive-gray upperparts, and whitish underparts often washed pale yellow on the belly. Shows two pale wingbars and slightly darker wings with pale edging. The face is plain with a faint pale eyering and pale lores; lacks an obvious white crest.
Diet
Primarily small insects and other arthropods gleaned from leaves, twigs, and outer foliage. It also makes short sallies to snatch flying prey. Foraging is quick, with frequent tail and wing flicks as it probes and picks from substrates.
Preferred Environment
Feeds in open woodland, scrub, and along forest edges and riparian thickets. Often uses mid-canopy to outer foliage, including hedgerows and scattered trees in agricultural landscapes.
