The ticking doradito is a species of bird in subfamily Elaeniinae of family Tyrannidae, the tyrant flycatchers. It is found in Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, and possibly Paraguay.
Region
Southern South America
Typical Environment
Occurs in marshes, reedbeds, and rush-dominated wetlands across parts of Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, and possibly Paraguay. It favors dense emergent vegetation along the margins of lakes, slow rivers, and seasonal ponds. In arid regions it is tied to oasis-like marshes and irrigation wetlands. It uses both natural and man-made reedbeds, provided cover is dense and water is shallow.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 2500 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Named for its steady, metronomic ticking call, this small marsh tyrant is often heard before it is seen. It keeps low in dense reeds and rushes, flicking its tail while gleaning insects among stems. Recently recognized as distinct from the Warbling Doradito, it differs mostly by voice and subtle plumage details. Conservation concern is generally low, but drainage of wetlands can locally impact populations.
Temperament
skulking and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with low, fluttering dashes over reeds
Social Behavior
Typically found singly or in pairs during the breeding season, maintaining small territories within dense marsh vegetation. Nests are placed low in reeds or rushes, often a cup woven from fine grasses. Clutches are small and parents are attentive, moving quietly through cover to feed nestlings. Outside breeding, may gather loosely where habitat is extensive.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
The voice is a distinctive, evenly spaced series of sharp ticks, reminiscent of a mechanical timer. Calls are simple, high, and penetrating, carrying well through reedbeds, especially at dawn and dusk.
Plumage
Compact flycatcher with bright yellow underparts and olive to brownish-olive upperparts; shows two pale buff wingbars and a narrow pale supercilium. Tail and wings are dusky with contrasting pale edges, and the underparts are clean yellow from throat to belly. Feathers appear smooth and sleek, aiding in its skulking through reeds.
Diet
Feeds primarily on small insects such as flies, midges, beetles, and other arthropods gleaned from reed stems and leaves. It also hawks tiny flying insects with short sallies from low perches. Occasional hovering and quick forays along edges of emergent vegetation are common. Aquatic insect larvae near the water surface are also taken.
Preferred Environment
Forages within dense stands of reeds, cattails, and rushes, keeping close to water and sheltered corridors. Edge zones where open water meets emergent vegetation are especially productive feeding sites.
