The three-striped flycatcher is a species of bird in the family Tyrannidae, the tyrant flycatchers. It is found in Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Ecuador, Paraguay, Peru, and Venezuela.
Region
Northern and central South America
Typical Environment
Occurs widely in the Amazon Basin and adjacent regions, extending into the Guianas, Venezuela, eastern Andean foothills, and south through Brazil to Bolivia, Paraguay, and northern Argentina. It favors humid lowland and foothill forests, especially along rivers and in gallery forests. Frequently uses forest edges, tall secondary growth, and semi-open woodlands with scattered tall trees. It is typically found in the mid to upper canopy but will descend to lower levels near watercourses.
Altitude Range
0–1500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The Three-striped Flycatcher is a canopy-dwelling tyrant flycatcher that can be mistaken for kiskadees, but its bold trio of head stripes is a reliable field mark. It often hunts from high perches along forest edges and rivers, sallying out to catch insects in mid-air. Pairs are frequently encountered calling back and forth, and the species sometimes joins mixed-species flocks in the mid to upper canopy.
Temperament
alert and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with frequent sallies from perches
Social Behavior
Usually found in pairs or small family groups within the canopy. Often accompanies mixed-species flocks along forest edges and riparian corridors. Nests are open cups placed high in trees; both parents participate in care of the young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations include sharp, whistled notes and squeaky, piping phrases delivered from exposed perches. Duetting between pair members is common, with a clear, carrying quality that cuts through canopy noise.
Plumage
Olive-brown upperparts with dusky wings edged buff, bright yellow underparts, and whitish throat. Head shows a striking pattern of three pale stripes separated by darker dusky lines, plus a subtle dark mask through the eye. Tail is brown with faint rufous edges.
Diet
Primarily captures flying insects such as flies, bees, wasps, and beetles by sallying from high perches. Also gleans arthropods from foliage when opportunities arise. Supplements its diet with small fruits and berries, especially during seasonal peaks.
Preferred Environment
Feeds mainly in the mid to upper canopy along forest edges, river margins, and clearings with tall trees. Frequently forages above streams and in gaps where insect activity is concentrated.
