The white-throated tyrannulet is a species of bird in subfamily Elaeniinae of family Tyrannidae, the tyrant flycatchers. It is found in Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and Venezuela.
Region
Andes Mountains
Typical Environment
Occurs along the Andes from Venezuela and Colombia south through Ecuador, Peru, and Bolivia to northwestern Argentina, with some populations reaching adjacent montane forests. It favors humid montane and cloud forests, forest borders, and second growth with tall trees. Often found along ridges, in elfin forest, and at forest edges where sunlight stimulates insect activity. It regularly utilizes mid- to upper-canopy strata and frequently forages in mixed-species flocks.
Altitude Range
1500–3800 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A small Andean tyrant flycatcher, the white-throated tyrannulet is conspicuous for its crisp white throat and active, tail-flicking foraging style. It commonly joins mixed-species flocks in montane forests, moving quickly through the canopy and edges. Its high, thin calls help birders locate it even when it stays partially concealed among foliage.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Often forages in pairs or small family groups, frequently joining mixed-species flocks in the canopy and forest edges. Likely monogamous with cup nests placed in vegetation, where both adults attend the young. Territorial singing and calling are most evident during the breeding season.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
Gives thin, high-pitched tseet and tsee notes and short, bright trills. Phrases are often repeated from a perch and can sound insect-like, carrying well in montane forest.
Plumage
Olive-gray upperparts with two narrow whitish wingbars, a clean white throat contrasting with paler underparts that may show a faint yellow wash. The head is grayish with a distinct whitish supercilium and darker lores. Tail is dusky with pale edging; overall appearance is crisp and neatly marked.
Diet
Primarily consumes small insects and other arthropods, gleaned from leaves and twigs. It frequently makes short sallies to snatch prey from the air or hover-gleans at foliage tips. Occasional small fruits may be taken opportunistically, especially when insect activity is low.
Preferred Environment
Feeds in the mid to upper canopy along forest edges, light gaps, and near ridgelines. Commonly forages alongside mixed-species flocks where prey is more easily flushed.
