Yellow-bellied Elaenia

The Yellow-bellied Elaenia, a member of the Tyrant Flycatcher family, is a small bird with a rather endearing appearance. Adults measure approximately 16.5 cm in length and weigh a modest 24 grams. They are characterized by olive-brown upperparts and a distinctive white eye ring. A notable feature is their bushy divided crest, which is complemented by a white crown patch in the parting. Their throat is pale, transitioning to a greyish breast and culminating in pale yellow lower underparts.

Identification Tips

When attempting to identify the Yellow-bellied Elaenia, look for the white eye ring and the bushy crest, which can be quite prominent. The white crown patch is also a key feature, though it may not always be visible. The contrast between the greyish breast and the pale yellow of the lower underparts is another distinguishing characteristic.

Habitat

The Yellow-bellied Elaenia is quite adaptable and can be found in a variety of semi-open habitats. These include woodland, scrub, gardens, and areas of cultivation. It is a bird that thrives in environments where trees and open spaces intermingle.

Distribution

This species has a broad range, breeding from southern Mexico and the Yucatán Peninsula through Central and South America to northern Argentina. It is also present on the islands of Trinidad and Tobago.

Behaviour

The Yellow-bellied Elaenia is known for its conspicuous and vocal nature. It feeds on both berries and insects, the latter of which are often caught in mid-air after the bird launches from a perch. Occasionally, it may also pick insects from plants. This species has been observed joining mixed-species feeding flocks, typically remaining high in the trees.

Song & calls

The vocalizations of the Yellow-bellied Elaenia include a nasal "breeer" call and a wheezing song that can be described as "zhu-zhee-zhu-zhee."

Breeding

Breeding Yellow-bellied Elaenias construct a cup-shaped nest where they lay two cream-colored eggs adorned with reddish blotches at the larger end. The female incubates these eggs for approximately 16 days, and the fledging period is about the same length. It is worth noting that even small omnivorous mammals, such as the common marmoset, may pose a threat to the nests, particularly during the dry season when fruits are less abundant.

Conservation status

The IUCN has classified the Yellow-bellied Elaenia as Least Concern, reflecting its commonality and extensive range. There are no immediate threats to the population that would warrant a higher level of concern.