Onychorhynchus swainsoni
The Atlantic Royal Flycatcher (*Onychorhynchus swainsoni*) is a strikingly unique passerine belonging to the Tyrannidae family, a diverse group of New World flycatchers. Measuring approximately 16-17.5 cm (6.3-6.9 in) in length and weighing around 12-15 grams (0.4-0.5 oz), this species is most famously recognized by its extraordinary, erectile crest, typically held flat but fanned out dramatically during courtship, alarm, or territorial displays. This spectacular crest is fiery red in males, ...
This species primarily inhabits the humid understory and mid-story of lowland and foothill Atlantic Forest, often found near streams or clearings. It prefers mature, undisturbed forest up to elevations of about 1,000 meters (3,300 feet).
Predominantly insectivorous, its diet consists mainly of various flying insects, including moths, butterflies, beetles, and crickets. It primarily hunts using the "sally-glean" technique, snatching prey from the air or off leaves and branches.
The Atlantic Royal Flycatcher is a diurnal and rather inconspicuous bird, spending much of its time perched quietly in the forest understory, patiently waiting for prey. It forages primarily by sallying from a perch to snatch insects in mid-air or glean them from foliage. During courtship, the ma...
The Atlantic Royal Flycatcher is a non-migratory resident of the Atlantic Forest biome in southeastern Brazil, extending into adjacent extreme eastern Paraguay and northeastern Argentina (Misiones province). Its distribution is highly fragmented due to extensive deforestation across its historica...
Vulnerable
- The Atlantic Royal Flycatcher's crest, when fully fanned, can be nearly as wide as its body, creating an astonishing visual display. - Its unique, pendulous nest can sometimes reach an impressive length of over 6 feet (1.8 meters), often looking like debris caught on a branch. - The crest is ty...