Mecocerculus leucophrys
The White-throated Tyrannulet (Mecocerculus leucophrys) is a petite yet widespread member of the tyrant flycatcher family, Tyrannidae, inhabiting the high-altitude forests of the Andes. Measuring a modest 11-13 cm (4.3-5.1 in) and weighing 8-12 grams, its subtle olive-green to grayish-olive upperparts provide excellent camouflage amidst the dense foliage. Distinctive field marks include a brilliant white throat, a prominent white supercilium extending above the eye, and two yellowish-white wi...
Found in humid montane forests, cloud forests, and forest edges, often near the treeline, typically between 1,500 and 3,500 meters elevation.
Feeds almost exclusively on small insects and other arthropods, primarily caught by gleaning from foliage or making short aerial sallies.
Daily activity patterns are diurnal, with the White-throated Tyrannulet actively foraging in the midstory and canopy throughout the day. Its primary foraging strategy involves active gleaning of small insects and arthropods from leaves and twigs, often employing short hover-gleans or quick aerial...
The White-throated Tyrannulet boasts an extensive range across the Andes Mountains of South America, stretching from northern Venezuela, through Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and Bolivia, reaching as far south as northwestern Argentina (Jujuy, Salta, and Tucumán provinces). An isolated population of t...
Least Concern
- The White-throated Tyrannulet is one of the most widespread and common tyrannulets across the vast Andean mountain range. - Its scientific name, Mecocerculus leucophrys, translates roughly to 'long-tailed white-eyebrowed' bird, referring to its distinctive field marks. - Despite its small size,...