The tropical royal flycatcher is a passerine bird that most taxonomic systems place in family Onychorhynchidae. It is found in Mexico, south through most of Central America, and in every mainland South American country except Argentina, Chile, Paraguay, and Uruguay.
Region
Mesoamerica and northern–central South America (Mexico to Amazon Basin)
Typical Environment
Occurs from southeastern Mexico through most of Central America and widely across tropical South America, absent only from the southern temperate cone. It favors humid lowland and foothill evergreen forests, riparian corridors, and tall secondary growth. Most records are in dense, shaded understory near streams or rivers. It is typically uncommon to locally fairly common where habitat persists, but easily overlooked due to its quiet behavior.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This shy forest flycatcher carries an extraordinary fan-shaped crest that it raises only during displays, revealing blazing red or orange feathers tipped with iridescent blue. It builds a remarkable long, pendulous nest that hangs over water, helping deter predators. Taxonomy of the royal flycatcher complex varies by authority, but most place it in family Onychorhynchidae.
Temperament
quiet and unobtrusive
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with brief sallies from low perches
Social Behavior
Usually solitary or in pairs in the breeding season. The species builds a long, dangling purse-like nest suspended over water; the female primarily incubates while the male often assists with provisioning. Clutches are small, typically 1–2 eggs, and territories are maintained in dense understory.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Gives soft, plaintive whistles in a descending series, often spaced and melancholy in tone. Calls include thin peeps and soft trills delivered from low, shaded perches, making it easy to miss.
