Oncostoma olivaceum
The Southern Bentbill (Oncostoma olivaceum) is a diminutive and distinctive member of the tyrant flycatcher family, Tyrannidae, immediately recognizable by its strikingly decurved, or 'bent,' blackish bill. Measuring a mere 10-11.5 cm (4-4.5 inches) in length and weighing between 6-9 grams (0.21-0.32 oz), this tiny passerine sports olive-green upperparts, a contrasting gray head, and bright yellow underparts, often with a faint olive wash on the flanks. A subtle, pale eye-ring further enhance...
Found in humid tropical and subtropical forests, forest edges, secondary growth, and overgrown clearings, typically in lowlands and foothills up to 1500 meters (4,900 feet) elevation.
Feeds primarily on small insects and other arthropods, actively gleaning them from foliage and branches, and occasionally performing short sallying flights. Small fruits may also be consumed opportunistically.
The Southern Bentbill is a highly active, diurnal species, constantly on the move through the understory and mid-story vegetation. Its foraging strategy primarily involves active gleaning of insects and other small arthropods from the underside of leaves and branches, often using its unique decur...
The Southern Bentbill is a resident species found across a broad Neotropical distribution, spanning both Central and South America. Its Central American range extends from eastern Honduras, through Nicaragua, Costa Rica, and Panama. In South America, it occurs along the Pacific slope of western C...
Least Concern
- The Southern Bentbill's scientific name 'Oncostoma' derives from Greek words meaning 'bent mouth,' a direct reference to its most striking feature, the strongly decurved bill. - Despite its small size, it's an incredibly active bird, constantly flitting through dense vegetation, making it a cha...