Zimmerius chicomendesi
Chico's Tyrannulet (*Zimmerius chicomendesi*) is a diminutive and relatively recently described passerine belonging to the tyrant flycatcher family, Tyrannidae. Measuring approximately 9.5-10 cm in length and weighing around 7-8 grams, this small songbird exhibits typical tyrannulet morphology. Its plumage is characterized by olive-green upperparts that transition to a duller greenish-gray on the head, contrasting with a clean whitish throat and a pale yellowish wash across the belly and unde...
This species primarily inhabits humid lowland evergreen forests, showing a strong affinity for areas with bamboo thickets (*Guadua* species) and dense vine tangles, typically at elevations below 500 meters. It can also be found at forest edges and in moderately disturbed secondary growth.
Chico's Tyrannulet is primarily insectivorous, feeding on small arthropods gleaned from foliage and branches, supplemented occasionally by small fruits. It actively forages within the forest canopy and understory, often as part of mixed-species flocks.
This diurnal tyrant flycatcher is typically observed as an active, solitary bird or as part of mixed-species foraging flocks, particularly in the mid-canopy and sub-canopy layers of its forest habitat. Its primary foraging strategy involves gleaning small insects and other arthropods from the und...
Chico's Tyrannulet is narrowly endemic to a specific region within the southwestern Brazilian Amazon. Its known breeding and resident range is primarily restricted to the southeastern part of the state of Acre and the southwestern portion of Amazonas state, Brazil. There are limited reports sugge...
Vulnerable
- Chico's Tyrannulet was only scientifically described in 2013, making it one of the more recently recognized bird species of the Amazon. - It is named in honor of Chico Mendes, the iconic Brazilian rubber tapper, environmental activist, and martyr, highlighting its role in the conservation of th...