The white-bellied pygmy tyrant or white-breasted pygmy-tyrant is a species of bird in the family Tyrannidae, the tyrant flycatchers. It is found in Bolivia, Ecuador, and Peru.
Region
Andes Mountains
Typical Environment
Occurs on the humid eastern slopes of the Andes in Peru, Ecuador, and Bolivia. It inhabits subtropical montane forests, especially dense understory, forest edges, secondary growth, and bamboo (Chusquea) thickets. Often keeps within a few meters of the ground, moving through vine tangles and shaded ravines. The species has a patchy, localized presence where suitable understory structure is available. Proximity to streams and gullies is common, providing cool, moist microhabitats.
Altitude Range
600–1800 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Among the tiniest passerines in the Americas, this pygmy-tyrant often goes unnoticed as it forages silently in dense understory. It favors bamboo and vine tangles along the humid Andean foothills. Its high, thin calls are often the best clue to its presence. Pairs may join mixed-species flocks but typically remain low and concealed.
Temperament
skulking and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with brief hover-gleaning
Social Behavior
Usually found singly or in pairs within dense understory, and occasionally joins mixed-species flocks. Pairs maintain small territories and communicate with thin high-pitched notes. Nesting is presumed to be low in vegetation with both parents attending young, as in related pygmy-tyrants.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Gives very high, thin, insect-like seep notes and short, wispy trills. Vocalizations are soft and easily overlooked, often delivered from concealed perches. Repeated contact notes help maintain pair cohesion in dense foliage.
Plumage
Olive-green upperparts with a gray-tinged head and clean white underparts, especially belly and throat. Subtle pale wingbars and a faint eye ring are typical. Tail is very short; overall appearance is compact with a fluffy, rounded look.
Diet
Feeds primarily on tiny insects and other small arthropods. Captures prey by gleaning from leaves and twigs and by brief hovering to pick items from foliage. Occasionally sallies short distances to snatch airborne insects. Foraging is meticulous and confined to shaded, sheltered layers of the forest.
Preferred Environment
Dense understory, bamboo stands, vine tangles, and forest-edge thickets where small insects are abundant. Often forages near streams or along steep ravines that retain moisture and cover.
