The velvety black tyrant is a species of bird in the family Tyrannidae, the tyrant flycatchers. It is endemic to Brazil.
Region
Atlantic Forest of southeastern Brazil
Typical Environment
Occurs in the southeastern Atlantic Forest, especially along the Serra do Mar and Serra da Mantiqueira ranges. Favors humid montane and foothill forests, forest edges, clearings with scattered trees, and mature secondary growth. It is frequently seen at forest borders, along trails, and in shaded plantations adjacent to native forest. The species tolerates fragmentation better than some forest specialists but still relies on nearby native cover.
Altitude Range
200–2000 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Endemic to Brazil’s Atlantic Forest, the velvety black tyrant is a perching flycatcher that often sallies out to snatch insects mid-air. Males appear uniformly, light-absorbing black, giving the species its name, while females are brownish with pale wing bars. It adapts well to forest edges and secondary growth, so it can persist in moderately disturbed habitats. Pairs are often seen guarding small territories along forest borders and clearings.
Temperament
alert and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with quick sallies from exposed perches
Social Behavior
Typically found in pairs or small family groups, defending small territories along edges and openings. Nests are likely cup-shaped and placed in sheltered forks or dense vegetation near the forest edge. Courtship includes perch displays and short chases.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song consists of thin, high-pitched whistles and brief, buzzy phrases delivered from exposed perches. Calls include sharp tsee/tzip notes used during foraging and territorial exchanges.
Plumage
Male is uniformly velvety black with a soft, matte sheen; female is dusky brown with paler underparts and distinct pale buff wing bars. Feathers appear tight and sleek, with minimal gloss except in good light on males.
Diet
Primarily captures flying insects such as flies, beetles, and small wasps, taken on short aerial sallies from perches. Also gleans insects from foliage and branches when activity in the air is low. May occasionally take small berries, especially in cooler months or when insect abundance drops.
Preferred Environment
Forages along forest edges, light gaps, and secondary growth where open sightlines allow efficient sallying. Often uses conspicuous perches like dead snags, fence posts, or canopy edges to watch for prey.
