Myiornis atricapillus
The Black-capped Pygmy Tyrant (*Myiornis atricapillus*) is an exquisitely diminutive passerine, often cited as one of the smallest birds in its range, measuring a mere 6.5 cm (2.6 inches) in length and weighing just 3-4 grams. Its appearance is striking yet subtle: a contrasting glossy black cap crowns its head, offset by a brilliant white supercilium that extends from the lore to just behind the eye, giving it a perpetually surprised or inquisitive look. The back and wings are a dull olive-g...
This species primarily inhabits humid tropical and subtropical lowland forests, favoring forest edges, clearings, and secondary growth with dense understory. It typically occurs at elevations ranging from near sea level up to 900 meters (3,000 feet).
The diet of the Black-capped Pygmy Tyrant consists almost exclusively of small insects and spiders, which it catches with agile aerial sallies or gleans from foliage.
The Black-capped Pygmy Tyrant is a hyperactive, often solitary or paired bird, constantly flitting through the understory and lower to mid-canopy of trees. It employs a 'sally-glean' foraging strategy, darting out from a perch to snatch small insects from leaves or in mid-air, often performing ac...
The Black-capped Pygmy Tyrant is a resident species found across Central and northwestern South America. Its distribution extends from Costa Rica, particularly on the Caribbean slopes, south through Panama, and into South America. In South America, it occurs along the Pacific slope of western Col...
Least Concern
- It is one of the smallest birds in its range, often outsized by many insects it preys upon. - Its scientific name, *Myiornis atricapillus*, translates roughly to "mouse-like bird with a black cap," a fitting description for this tiny, scurrying flycatcher. - Despite its diminutive size, it poss...