Phylloscartes sylviolus
The Bay-ringed Tyrannulet (*Phylloscartes sylviolus*) is a diminutive and dynamic passerine bird, measuring just 11-12 cm in length and weighing 6-8 grams. Its striking plumage features an olive-green back contrasting with a bright yellow belly, a slate-gray head, and a conspicuously crisp white eye-ring that is a key identification mark. The species derives its common name from the two rufous (bay-colored) wing-bars, which are prominent against its darker wing feathers. Taxonomically, it bel...
This species primarily inhabits humid montane Atlantic Forest, favoring the lower to mid-canopy strata, forest borders, and areas of mature secondary growth between 500 and 2,200 meters elevation.
Its diet consists almost exclusively of small insects and other arthropods, which it actively gleans from the undersides of leaves and small branches.
The Bay-ringed Tyrannulet is a diurnal and exceptionally active bird, constantly flitting through the foliage in search of prey, often joining mixed-species flocks. Its foraging strategy involves restless gleaning, making quick, acrobatic movements, including hanging upside down, to snatch insect...
The Bay-ringed Tyrannulet is a resident species found throughout a disjunct range across southeastern Brazil, eastern Paraguay, and northeastern Argentina. In Brazil, its distribution spans from southern Minas Gerais and Espírito Santo south through Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo, Paraná, Santa Catari...
Least Concern
- Despite its common name, the 'bay-ringed' refers to the rufous coloration of its wing-bars, not an eye-ring; the eye-ring is distinctly white. - It is one of the smallest members of the vast Tyrannidae (tyrant flycatcher) family, which is predominantly found in the Americas. - Often incredibly ...