Todirostrum cinereum
The Common Tody-Flycatcher, *Todirostrum cinereum*, is a vibrant and diminutive member of the tyrant-flycatcher family (Tyrannidae), renowned for its hyperactive demeanor and striking coloration. Measuring a mere 9.5-10.5 cm in length and weighing just 6-8 grams, it boasts bright yellow underparts, a contrasting black head with a prominent white supercilium, and a dark olive-green back. Its black wings are edged with yellowish-white, and it sports a distinctive, flattened, spatulate bill, per...
Found in a variety of open to semi-open habitats, including forest edges, second growth, gardens, plantations, and parks. Primarily found at low to mid-elevations, typically below 1500 meters.
Primarily insectivorous, feeding on a wide array of insects (flies, beetles, caterpillars, ants) and spiders. Forages by gleaning from foliage, hovering, and sallying for aerial prey.
The Common Tody-Flycatcher is a highly active and conspicuous diurnal bird. Pairs typically forage together, tirelessly flitting between branches and leaves, often holding their tails cocked and constantly wagging them from side to side. Their foraging strategy involves acrobatic movements; they ...
The Common Tody-Flycatcher is a widespread resident throughout much of the Neotropics. Its breeding and year-round range extends from southern Mexico, including the Yucatán Peninsula, south through Central America (Belize, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, Panama) into South America. In...
Least Concern
- The Common Tody-Flycatcher's flattened, spatulate bill is perfectly adapted for catching insects from surfaces or in flight, acting like a tiny pair of forceps. - Despite its tiny size, it constructs one of the most elaborate and distinctive nests among Neotropical birds – a pendulous, purse-sh...