Atalotriccus pilaris
The Pale-eyed Pygmy Tyrant (Atalotriccus pilaris) is a diminutive and active passerine, belonging to the Tyrannidae family, distinguished by its strikingly pale, almost whitish, iris—a key field mark that sets it apart from many similar small tyrants. Measuring a mere 9-10 cm in length and weighing around 5-7 grams, this bird is a master of camouflage within dense foliage. Its plumage is generally olive-green on the upperparts, contrasting with pale yellowish underparts and a whitish throat, ...
This species primarily inhabits dense undergrowth, shrubby tangles, forest edges, and secondary growth, often favoring areas near water or in seasonally flooded forests. It is found in lowlands, generally up to 1000 meters in elevation.
The primary diet consists of small insects, including beetles, flies, and caterpillars, supplemented with spiders. Food is primarily obtained by gleaning from foliage and twigs, with occasional aerial sallies.
The Pale-eyed Pygmy Tyrant is a highly active diurnal bird, constantly flitting and darting through dense vegetation. It employs an energetic foraging strategy, primarily gleaning small insects and spiders directly from leaves, twigs, and bark, often performing acrobatic maneuvers. It also occasi...
The Pale-eyed Pygmy Tyrant is a resident species found across a broad swathe of northern South America. Its distribution spans from north-central Colombia, east of the Andes, throughout much of Venezuela's lowlands, and across Guyana, Suriname, and French Guiana. In Brazil, it is widespread acros...
Least Concern
- The Pale-eyed Pygmy Tyrant is one of the smallest birds in the entire Tyrannidae family, a group known for its diverse sizes. - Its strikingly pale, often yellowish-white, iris is a unique and defining feature, making it easily distinguishable from other small, olive-green flycatchers. - The ge...