The tawny-chested flycatcher, or Salvin's flycatcher, is a small Vulnerable species of passerine bird in the family Tyrannidae, the tyrant flycatchers. It is found in Costa Rica and previously was also found in Nicaragua.
Region
Central America
Typical Environment
Primarily on the Caribbean slope of northeastern Costa Rica, with historical records from southeastern Nicaragua. Occupies humid lowland and foothill evergreen forest, especially dense understory along streams and forest edges. Also occurs in tall secondary growth and occasionally in shaded cacao or other agroforestry systems where forest structure remains. Requires closed-canopy conditions and dense lower strata for foraging and nesting.
Altitude Range
0–600 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This elusive understory tyrant-flycatcher is listed as Vulnerable due to ongoing lowland forest loss and fragmentation. It forages quietly and is easily overlooked, which can make it seem rarer than it is in suitable habitat. Historically recorded in Nicaragua, it is now largely confined to northeastern Costa Rica. It may persist in tall secondary growth and shaded agroforestry, but depends on intact, humid forest structure.
Temperament
skulking and quiet
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with brief sallies
Social Behavior
Typically solitary or in pairs within well-defined territories in the forest understory. Nests are placed low to mid-level in dense vegetation; both parents attend the young. Joins mixed-species flocks infrequently, preferring to remain unobtrusive in shaded cover.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Soft, high-pitched whistles and thin tseet notes delivered from concealed perches. Vocalizations are subdued and sporadic, often given at dawn or in overcast, humid conditions.
