The tropical gnatcatcher is a small active insectivorous songbird, which is a resident species throughout a large part of northern South America. It was formerly considered as conspecific with the white-browed gnatcatcher and the Marañón gnatcatcher.
Region
Northern South America and the Guianas
Typical Environment
Found widely from Colombia and Venezuela through the Guianas and northern Brazil, with populations in parts of Ecuador and northern Peru. It occupies lowland and foothill habitats, favoring forest edges, secondary growth, gallery forest, and riverine thickets. It also uses dry woodland, savanna patches with shrubs, and mangroves. The species is common in human-altered landscapes where shrubs and young trees provide foraging substrates.
Altitude Range
0–1500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The tropical gnatcatcher is a tiny, hyperactive insect-eater that frequently joins mixed-species flocks, flicking and fanning its tail as it forages. It is a resident across much of northern South America. It was formerly treated as conspecific with the white-browed and Marañón gnatcatchers, which are now split based on differences in plumage and vocalizations.
Tropical Gnatcatcher - Brazil
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Typically seen in pairs or small family groups and regularly joins mixed-species foraging flocks. Pairs maintain territories year-round and build small, neat cup nests placed on forked branches. Both sexes participate in incubation and chick rearing.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
High, thin, sibilant series of whistles and twitters delivered in short phrases. Calls include sharp chips and buzzy scolds, often given while actively foraging.
