The sulphury flycatcher is a passerine bird of the family Tyrannidae, the tyrant flycatchers.. It is found on Trinidad and in every mainland South American country except Argentina, Chile, Paraguay, and Uruguay.
Region
Northern South America and Trinidad
Typical Environment
Occurs on Trinidad and across mainland South America except the southern cone countries of Argentina, Chile, Paraguay, and Uruguay. It favors palm-dominated wetlands, gallery forests, and open savannas with scattered Mauritia (moriche/buriti) palms. Also found at forest edges, riparian corridors, and in pastures or clearings where palms remain. Often perches high and conspicuously on palm crowns or other exposed snags.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 800 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This stout-billed tyrant flycatcher is strongly associated with moriche (Mauritia) palm habitats and often perches conspicuously atop palm crowns. It is frequently mistaken for a small Tropical Kingbird, but has a stockier bill, more erect posture, and a much harsher, rasping voice. Its vivid sulphur-yellow underparts give the species its common name. Nests are typically placed high in palms where it defends small territories.
Temperament
alert and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with direct sallying flights from exposed perches
Social Behavior
Typically seen singly, in pairs, or in small family groups. Pairs defend small territories centered on palm stands, especially during breeding. Nests are placed high in palm crowns, where adults maintain vigilant lookout posts.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are loud, harsh, and rasping, often delivered from high perches. Calls are repeated, squeaky scolds and buzzy phrases that carry well over open savanna.
Plumage
Olive-brown upperparts with a grayish head and pale throat, contrasting with bright sulphur-yellow underparts; wings dark with minimal or indistinct wingbars; tail brown and slightly notched.
Diet
Primarily catches flying insects by sallying from exposed perches. Also gleans insects from palm fronds and surrounding vegetation. May occasionally take small fruits, especially from palms, but remains largely insectivorous. Often exploits aerial insect swarms after rain or during termite emergences.
Preferred Environment
Feeds in and around palm swamps, wet savannas, riparian corridors, and open woodland edges. Frequently hunts from the tops of moriche palms or fence posts in open country.
