Taczanowski's ground tyrant is a species of bird in the family Tyrannidae, the tyrant flycatchers. It is found in Bolivia and Peru.
Region
Andes Mountains
Typical Environment
Occurs in the central Andean highlands of southern Peru and western Bolivia, typically above treeline. It inhabits open puna grasslands, rocky outcrops, scree slopes, and windswept ridges, and may forage around bofedales (high-Andean wet meadows). The species often uses human-altered open areas such as mine margins and roadside embankments if suitable bare ground and stones are present. It is generally scarce to locally common, with patchy distribution tied to open high-altitude terrain.
Altitude Range
3500–5000 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Named after the Polish zoologist Władysław Taczanowski, this high-Andean flycatcher spends much of its time on open ground, frequently pumping its tail as it runs and sallies after insects. It favors barren, windswept puna and rocky slopes above treeline. Pairs often nest under rocks or turf overhangs, well hidden from predators. It can be confiding where not persecuted, often perching on low stones or fence posts.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with low, direct flights between rocks and perches
Social Behavior
Usually encountered singly or in pairs, especially during the breeding season. It forages mostly on the ground, making short dashes and brief sallies to snatch insects. Nests are well-concealed cups placed under rocks or in crevices; both parents participate in chick-rearing.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are simple, consisting of thin, high chips and short dry trills. Males may give a modest song from low perches or during brief display flights in the breeding season.
