The white-crested elaenia is a species of bird in subfamily Elaeniinae of family Tyrannidae, the tyrant flycatchers. It is found in Bolivia, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru.
Region
Andean region of western South America
Typical Environment
Breeds and occurs from central and southern Chile north through the Andes into Bolivia, Peru, Ecuador, and reaches Colombia, using forest edges, open woodlands, and scrub. In the nonbreeding season it moves northward along the Andes and into adjacent foothill forests, second growth, and riparian corridors. It readily uses disturbed habitats, shelterbelts, and semi-open areas near human settlements. During movements it can appear in a wide range of wooded habitats and clearings with scattered trees.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 3500 m
Climate Zone
Other
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This elaenia raises a small white crown patch when excited, a feature often hidden at rest and key to identification. It is notoriously tricky to tell from other elaenias by plumage alone, so voice is important. It forages by quick sallies from perches and also eats fruit, making it a useful seed disperser during migration.
Temperament
quietly active and somewhat inconspicuous
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with agile sallies
Social Behavior
Typically in pairs on breeding grounds, defending small territories. The nest is a small open cup placed in a shrub or tree, with a clutch usually of 2–3 eggs. Outside the breeding season it may join loose flocks and mixed-species foraging parties during movements.
Migratory Pattern
Seasonal migrant
Song Description
Vocalizations are high-pitched, thin whistles and squeaky phrases, often repeated from exposed perches. Calls include sharp chips and rising wheezy notes that help separate it from similar elaenias.
Plumage
Olive-gray upperparts with paler grayish face, whitish underparts often washed yellow on the belly, and two distinct whitish wingbars. Crown often looks dusky but can reveal a small erectable white crest. Plumage is rather plain with subtle contrast and soft feather texture.
Diet
Takes small flying insects by sallying from perches and also gleans arthropods from foliage. Consumes a variety of berries and small fruits, especially in the nonbreeding season and during migration. Its fruit-eating habits contribute to seed dispersal across disturbed and edge habitats.
Preferred Environment
Feeds along forest edges, riparian thickets, second growth, and open woodlands with scattered perches. Frequently visits fruiting shrubs and small trees and will forage in semi-urban green spaces.
