Cnemarchus rufipennis
The Rufous-webbed Bush Tyrant, *Cnemarchus rufipennis*, is a striking, medium-sized flycatcher of the high Andes, typically measuring 20-23 cm in length and weighing around 40-50 grams. Its most distinctive field mark is the vibrant rufous-chestnut webbing on its primary wing feathers, which creates a prominent panel visible in flight and at rest. Adults feature a grayish head with a crisp white supercilium, contrasting with a dark eye-line and dark bill. The back is dusky brownish-gray, whil...
Found primarily in high-altitude montane scrub, *Polylepis* woodlands, and open subalpine habitats at or near the treeline, typically between 3,000 and 4,500 meters elevation.
Feeds predominantly on various insects, including beetles, flies, wasps, and caterpillars, captured primarily through aerial flycatching or by gleaning from vegetation.
The Rufous-webbed Bush Tyrant is diurnal and often perches conspicuously on exposed branches, rock outcrops, or the tops of bushes, maintaining an upright posture while scanning for prey. It is a classic sit-and-wait predator, primarily using aerial sallying to catch flying insects (flycatching) ...
The Rufous-webbed Bush Tyrant has a wide but disjunct distribution across the Andes of South America, primarily occupying high-altitude montane habitats. Its range extends from the extreme southern reaches of Colombia, through the highlands of Ecuador, Peru, and Bolivia, culminating in northwest ...
Least Concern
- The "rufous-webbed" part of its name directly refers to the distinctive reddish-brown inner webs of its primary flight feathers, a key identification feature. - It is a high-altitude specialist, thriving in the harsh conditions of the Andean treeline, often above 3,000 meters. - Its typical hun...