Myiopagis subplacens
The Pacific Elaenia (Myiopagis subplacens) is a diminutive and often understated tyrant flycatcher belonging to the diverse Tyrannidae family, closely allied with other members of the *Myiopagis* genus like the Forest Elaenia. This species typically measures between 12.5 and 13.5 cm in length and weighs approximately 12-14 grams, presenting with subtle olive-green upperparts and pale yellowish-white underparts, offering excellent camouflage within its forested habitats. Key identification fea...
This species primarily inhabits the mid-story and canopy of humid and semi-humid subtropical to tropical deciduous forests, often found in dry forest scrub and forest edges, typically from sea level up to 1,500 meters (occasionally higher).
Primarily insectivorous, feeding on small arthropods gleaned from foliage and snatched during short aerial sallies, supplemented occasionally with small fruits.
Pacific Elaenias are diurnal insectivores, typically foraging actively from dawn to dusk, often observed alone or in pairs rather than large flocks. They employ a versatile foraging strategy, primarily gleaning insects from foliage and leaf undersides, but also executing short sally-hovers to sna...
The Pacific Elaenia is a resident species found exclusively along the Pacific slope of South America, demonstrating a rather restricted geographic distribution. Its primary breeding and year-round range extends from southwestern Ecuador, covering the lowlands and foothills, south into northwester...
Least Concern
- Its specific epithet 'subplacens' means 'somewhat pleasing,' perhaps alluding to its soft vocalizations rather than its appearance. - Despite its common name, it is a New World flycatcher (Tyrannidae), not a 'true' elaenia, though it shares morphological similarities with the *Elaenia* genus. -...