Poecilotriccus plumbeiceps
The Ochre-faced Tody-Flycatcher (Poecilotriccus plumbeiceps) is a diminutive and strikingly marked member of the Tyrannidae family, a true gem of the Andean cloud forests. Measuring a mere 10-11 cm (4-4.5 inches) in length and weighing approximately 6-8 grams, it boasts a vibrant ochre-yellow face that dramatically contrasts with its lead-grey crown and pristine white throat. Its back is a rich olive-green, transitioning to a bright yellow belly, while dark wings are adorned with two prominen...
Primarily inhabits humid montane forests, cloud forests, and forest edges, from 1,200 to 2,800 meters (3,900-9,200 feet) elevation.
Feeds primarily on small insects and spiders, typically caught by sallying from a perch or gleaning from foliage.
This active and restless flycatcher is strictly diurnal, constantly flitting through the understory and mid-story of its humid montane habitat. Foraging involves a combination of short, rapid sallies to snatch small insects from the air (hover-gleaning) and agile gleaning directly from the surfac...
The Ochre-faced Tody-Flycatcher is a resident species found exclusively in the Andean cordillera of South America, exhibiting a broad but fragmented distribution. Its breeding and year-round range extends from extreme western Venezuela (in the states of Táchira and Mérida), southward through the ...
Least Concern
- Its genus name, *Poecilotriccus*, is derived from Greek words meaning 'varied' and 'small bird,' aptly describing its often colorful and active nature. - Despite its small size, it is an incredibly active hunter, constantly on the move to snatch tiny insects from the air and leaves. - The 'tody...