Silvicultrix spodionota
The Kalinowski's Chat-Tyrant (Silvicultrix spodionota) is a diminutive yet captivating member of the New World tyrant-flycatcher family (Tyrannidae), typically measuring 11-12 cm (4.3-4.7 in) in length and weighing around 8-12 grams. Its subtle plumage features olive-green upperparts, which transition to a distinct ashy-grey on the back and rump, contrasting with pale grayish-white underparts. Key field marks include a pale supercilium that stands out against a darker eyestripe, and a small, ...
Exclusively found in humid montane forests, cloud forests, and forest edges at high elevations in the Andes, typically between 2,000 and 3,500 meters (6,500-11,500 ft).
Primarily insectivorous, feeding on small flying insects and larvae caught during aerial sallies or gleaned from vegetation.
This diurnal species is active from dawn to dusk, often perching conspicuously on exposed branches within the forest understory or at its edge, characterized by an upright posture and frequent tail-pumping. It is primarily insectivorous, employing a classic 'sally-and-return' foraging strategy, d...
The Kalinowski's Chat-Tyrant is endemic to the northern and central Andes of South America. Its breeding range extends across specific high-elevation areas in southern Colombia (Nariño, Putumayo), southern Ecuador (Loja, Zamora-Chinchipe), and a significant portion of Peru, from the departments o...
Least Concern
- Its scientific name, *spodionota*, is derived from Greek, meaning 'ashy-backed,' a key distinguishing feature of its plumage compared to its congeners. - Like many small tyrant-flycatchers, it frequently performs a characteristic tail-pumping or tail-flicking motion while perched. - It is one o...