Peruvian Tyrannulet

Overview

The Peruvian tyrannulet, scientifically known as Zimmerius viridiflavus, is a species of tyrant flycatcher found in southwestern Ecuador and Peru. It is a year-round resident classified as Least Concern by the IUCN Red List.

Identification

• Small bird measuring 11 to 12 cm in length, weighing between 9 and 10 g.
• Bright olive back and rump with dark dusky wings that feature bright yellow-green edges on the coverts and flight feathers.
• Buff-washed face with pale yellow lores and eye-ring, a dark stripe through the eye, and a bright yellow belly.
• Dawn song described as a rising, musical, chiming series "tew-tew-tee".

Habitat

Found intermittently on the east side of the central Peruvian Andes and in southwestern Ecuador, it primarily inhabits the canopy and edges of humid montane forests. The species occasionally occurs in secondary forest and ranges in elevation between 1,000 and 2,500 m.

Diet

Feeds mainly on insects and probably small fruits such as those of mistletoes. It forages singly or in pairs, often joining mixed-species feeding flocks, and gleans food while perched horizontally with its tail cocked or during short flights.

Did you know?

Nothing is known about the breeding biology of the Peruvian tyrannulet.