The wing-barred piprites is a species of bird in subfamily Pipritinae of family Tyrannidae, the tyrant flycatchers. It is found in every mainland South American country except Chile and Uruguay.
Region
Amazon Basin and Atlantic Forest of South America
Typical Environment
Occurs across much of tropical South America in humid evergreen forests, secondary forest, and forest edges. It inhabits the Amazon Basin, the Guianas, Andean foothill forests, and patches of the Atlantic Forest in southeastern South America. The species favors midstory to canopy strata, often near fruiting trees. It is generally absent from heavily open or arid habitats.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A small, elusive tyrant flycatcher, the wing-barred piprites often forages quietly in the midstory to canopy and can be overlooked despite its wide range. Its two pale wing bars give the species its name, and its behavior and proportions can recall manakins, reflecting historic taxonomic confusion. It frequently joins mixed-species flocks in forest interiors and edges.
Temperament
shy and unobtrusive
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats between perches
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly or in pairs, often accompanying mixed-species flocks in the midstory. Breeding behavior is inconspicuous; pairs maintain small territories within forest interiors and edges. Nesting details are poorly known but likely involve a small cup placed in dense vegetation.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Gives thin, high-pitched whistles and short, simple phrases delivered intermittently from cover. Calls are soft and can be easily missed among louder flockmates.
