Black-crested Tit-Tyrant
NameBlack-crested Tit-Tyrant
Common NameBlack-crested Tit-Tyrant
Scientific NameAnairetes nigrocristatus
FamilyTyrannidae
Wingspan (cm)17
Length (cm)11.5
Weight (g)7
Plumage DetailsThe Black-crested Tit-Tyrant has a black head with a distinctive, spiky white crest. Its back is black with white streaking, and its underparts are white with bold black streaking. The wings are black with two prominent white wing bars, and the bill is dark with an orange-pink base.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations include a rapid, high-pitched trill or chatter, often described as 'trrr-trrr-trrr' or a series of 'chip' notes.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest, mountain, desert
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeEndemic to the Andes of Peru and southern Ecuador, inhabiting arid scrub, dry montane forests, and high-altitude valleys.
Identifying FeaturesProminent black and white spiky crest, Black and white streaked plumage, Small size, Active foraging behavior, Orange-pink bill base
Description
This small, active flycatcher is easily recognized by its striking black and white plumage and prominent, spiky crest. It typically forages for insects in the arid scrub and dry montane forests of the Andes, often flicking its tail and wings.
