Phyllomyias reiseri
Reiser's Tyrannulet (Phyllomyias reiseri) is a diminutive and often inconspicuous member of the Tyrannidae family, characteristic of the Atlantic Forest biome of southeastern South America. Measuring approximately 11-12 cm in length and weighing around 7-9 grams, it exhibits typical tyrannulet morphology with olive-green upperparts and pale yellowish underparts. Distinctive field marks include two prominent yellowish wing-bars on dark wings, a grayish crown, and a subtle pale eyering, helping...
This species primarily inhabits humid subtropical and tropical forests, particularly valuing Atlantic Forest remnants and Araucaria pine forests. It typically occurs at elevations ranging from 200 to 1400 meters, preferring forest edges and mid-story vegetation.
Its diet consists mainly of small insects and other arthropods, which it obtains by gleaning from foliage and occasionally by making short aerial sallies. It has also been observed consuming tiny fruits or berries on rare occasions.
Reiser's Tyrannulet is a diurnal and highly active passerine, constantly flitting through the canopy and mid-story vegetation. It employs a typical flycatcher foraging strategy, primarily gleaning small insects and arthropods from leaves and twigs, but also making short sallies to capture prey in...
Reiser's Tyrannulet is endemic to a restricted portion of southeastern South America, primarily found in southeastern Brazil and eastern Paraguay. In Brazil, its distribution spans the states of Mato Grosso do Sul, São Paulo, Paraná, Santa Catarina, and Rio Grande do Sul. In Paraguay, it occurs i...
Least Concern
- Despite its "tyrannulet" name, suggesting a small tyrant flycatcher, Reiser's Tyrannulet is a rather subdued and unobtrusive bird. - It is a prime example of a species endemic to the highly biodiverse but severely threatened Atlantic Forest biome of South America. - Identifying Reiser's Tyrannu...