Plain-capped Ground-Tyrant
NamePlain-capped Ground-Tyrant
Common NamePlain-capped Ground-Tyrant
Scientific NameMuscisaxicola alpina
FamilyTyrannidae
Wingspan (cm)28
Length (cm)19
Weight (g)38
Plumage DetailsThis species has a plain brown or grayish-brown back and head, with a slightly paler, whitish throat and underparts. It features a subtle whitish supercilium (eyebrow stripe) and a dark line through the eye. The wings and tail are darker brown.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations include a soft, high-pitched 'tseep' or 'tsit' call, often given while foraging or in flight. It may also produce a short, simple song.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsmountain, grassland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in the Andes Mountains of South America, from southern Colombia south through Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, and northern Chile and Argentina.
Identifying FeaturesPlain brown/grayish-brown upperparts, Whitish throat and underparts, Subtle whitish supercilium, Dark eye-line, Perches on rocks in high-altitude grasslands
Description
The Plain-capped Ground-Tyrant is a medium-sized flycatcher found in high-altitude Andean grasslands. It typically perches on rocks or low vegetation, sallying out to catch insects. Its subdued plumage provides camouflage in its rocky, open habitat.
