Guatemalan Tyrannulet

The Guatemalan tyrannulet, also known as the paltry tyrannulet, is a diminutive member of the tyrant flycatcher family. This sprightly bird, with a length of 11–12 cm (4.3–4.7 in), boasts olive-green upperparts contrasted by a subdued grey crown and grey supercilia. Its wings are a shadowy blackish hue, edged with yellow, and it possesses a dusky, somewhat elongated tail. The underparts are a pale off-white with grey streaking, transitioning to a pure white belly and flanks tinged with a subtle yellow-green. The legs are a dark blackish color, and the sexes appear similar, though juveniles can be distinguished by an olive crown, yellow-tinged supercilia, and broader but paler wing bars.

Identification Tips

When attempting to identify the Guatemalan tyrannulet, look for its lack of wing bars, the grey streaking on its breast, and the yellow edging on the wings. The bird's active nature and preference for high perches in trees can also aid in its identification.

Habitat

This common bird is found from the lowlands up to an altitude of 2,600 m (8,500 ft), predominantly in humid environments. Its preferred habitats include forests, secondary growth, pastures, plantations with trees, and shady gardens.

Distribution

The Guatemalan tyrannulet graces the skies of southern Mexico, Guatemala, El Salvador, and southern Belize with its presence.

Behaviour

An active creature, the Guatemalan tyrannulet is typically observed alone or in pairs, flitting about high in the trees. It is known for its short sallies from a perch to capture food in flight.

Song & Calls

The vocal repertoire of this bird includes a loud "peeer" call and a plaintive dawn song that can be described as "yer-de-dee, yer-de-dee."

Breeding

The nest of the Guatemalan tyrannulet is a roughly spherical structure with a side entrance, crafted from mosses and lined with plant fiber. It is often situated amongst mosses, within large dead leaves, or in proximity to the nests of yellow-olive flycatchers, at heights ranging from 2 to 15 m above the ground. The typical clutch consists of two rufous-marked dull white eggs. The female incubates these eggs for 14–15 days until hatching, followed by a further 17 days until the fledglings are ready to leave the nest.

Diet and Feeding

The diet of this bird is primarily composed of mistletoe berries, supplemented by other berries and small insects, all of which are caught in flight.

Conservation status

The Guatemalan tyrannulet is currently classified as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List, indicating that it is not at immediate risk of widespread decline.