Phylloscartes gualaquizae
The Ecuadorian Tyrannulet, *Phylloscartes gualaquizae*, is a diminutive yet striking member of the Tyrannidae family, characteristic of the Andean foothills. Measuring approximately 11-12 cm (4.3-4.7 inches) in length, it is distinguished by its olive-green upperparts, a contrasting grey head, and bright yellow underparts, often with a faint olive wash on the flanks. A prominent white supercilium extending behind the eye, coupled with a dark loral stripe, offers a key field mark. Its wings ar...
This tyrannulet primarily inhabits humid subtropical and tropical montane forests, often preferring the dense understory and forest edges within its restricted Andean range. It is typically found at elevations between 800 and 1,800 meters (2,600-5,900 feet).
The Ecuadorian Tyrannulet is predominantly insectivorous, feeding on small arthropods gleaned from leaves and twigs, and occasionally caught in short aerial sallies from a perch.
The Ecuadorian Tyrannulet is an exceedingly active, arboreal species, constantly flitting through the mid-story and sub-canopy of its forest habitat. It frequently joins mixed-species foraging flocks, particularly with other small insectivores, benefiting from collective vigilance and enhanced fo...
The Ecuadorian Tyrannulet possesses an exceptionally restricted and fragmented geographic distribution, primarily found along the eastern slopes of the Andes in southeastern Ecuador and extending into extreme northern Peru. In Ecuador, its core range encompasses the humid montane forests of the p...
Vulnerable
- It belongs to the "Phylloscartes" genus, aptly named 'leaf-gleaners' for their specialized foraging technique of picking insects directly from foliage. - Its bright yellow underparts, combined with a striking white supercilium, make it a miniature jewel of the Andean cloud forests. - Despite it...