Zimmerius vilissimus
The Guatemalan Tyrannulet (*Zimmerius vilissimus*) is a diminutive, yet highly active, Neotropical passerine, embodying the subtle charm often found within the Tyrannidae family. Measuring a mere 9-10 cm (3.5-3.9 inches) in length and weighing about 7-9 grams (0.25-0.32 ounces), it sports olive-green upperparts, a dusky gray crown, and two often inconspicuous pale wing-bars. A distinguishing field mark is its broken white eye-ring or white loral spot, which contrasts with its relatively dark ...
This species primarily inhabits subtropical and tropical moist montane and lowland forests, preferring forest edges, clearings, and secondary growth. It is typically found at elevations ranging from 600 to 2000 meters.
Their diet consists mainly of small insects and other arthropods, which they glean from foliage and twigs, supplemented by small berries and fruits.
Guatemalan Tyrannulets are highly diurnal and active foragers, spending their day flitting through the canopy and subcanopy in a constant search for food. Their foraging strategy primarily involves gleaning insects from leaves and twigs, often hanging upside down to access prey, though they also ...
The Guatemalan Tyrannulet is a resident species, with a continuous breeding and year-round distribution stretching across southern Mexico, through much of Central America. Its range begins in the highlands of Chiapas, Mexico, extending southward through Guatemala, Belize, El Salvador, Honduras, N...
Least Concern
- The Guatemalan Tyrannulet was once considered part of a larger 'Paltry Tyrannulet' complex, which has since been split into multiple distinct species based on genetic and vocal differences. - Despite its small size, it's an incredibly active bird, constantly flitting through the canopy in searc...