Large Elaenia
NameLarge Elaenia
Common NameLarge Elaenia
Scientific NameElaenia spectabilis
FamilyTyrannidae
Wingspan (cm)26
Length (cm)18
Weight (g)25
Plumage DetailsUpperparts are olive-brown, contrasting with a whitish throat and belly, often with a faint yellowish wash on the flanks. It features a noticeable shaggy crest and two prominent white wing-bars, along with pale edges to its flight feathers.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a whistled 'wee-chew' or 'pee-chew' call, and a more complex, sometimes buzzy song that varies geographically.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across South America, found from northern Colombia and Venezuela south through Brazil, Bolivia, Paraguay, Uruguay, and northern Argentina. It inhabits a variety of wooded habitats.
Identifying FeaturesProminent shaggy crest, Two distinct white wing-bars, Olive-brown upperparts with whitish underparts, Relatively large size for an Elaenia, Upright posture
Description
The Large Elaenia is a medium-sized tyrant flycatcher characterized by its prominent shaggy crest and olive-brown upperparts. It typically perches upright, actively foraging for insects and small fruits in the canopy and mid-story of trees.
