Cinnamon-crested Spadebill

Overview

The cinnamon-crested spadebill is a small species of tyrant flycatcher found across parts of South America. It is classified as Least Concern by the IUCN, though its population is believed to be decreasing despite having no identified immediate threats.

Identification

• Size 9 to 9.5 cm, with a wide flat black bill and pale pinkish cream legs.
• Mostly dark rufous-brown plumage with a partially concealed orange-rufous crown patch and white throat.
• Belly is pale yellow, sometimes brighter in subspecies Platyrinchus saturatus pallidiventris.
• Vocalisations include sharp nasal 'squik' calls or metallic accelerating notes depending on region.

Habitat

Primarily inhabits terra firme forest, favouring dense brushy undergrowth and saplings, often on nutrient-poor sandy soils near blackwater rivers. Its range spans from Colombia through the Guianas and northern Brazil, with disjunct populations in Ecuador and Peru.

Diet

Feeds mainly on arthropods by foraging in the forest understory, usually singly or in pairs. It captures prey by making short upward sallies from perches 1.5 to 3 m above the ground, grabbing insects from the underside of leaves.

Did you know?

This bird is notoriously difficult to locate in the field, leading to the suggestion that it may be overlooked more often than it is actually rare.