Strange-tailed Tyrant
NameStrange-tailed Tyrant
Common NameStrange-tailed Tyrant
Scientific NameAlectrurus risora
FamilyTyrannidae
Wingspan (cm)22
Length (cm)32
Weight (g)22
Plumage DetailsMale plumage features a black crown, nape, back, and wings with a prominent white stripe on the wing. The underparts are white, and the gape and lores are a bright orange-red. The most notable feature is the pair of extremely long, stiff, black outer tail feathers that curve outwards. Females are duller, with brownish-black upperparts, whitish underparts, and a much shorter tail.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations consist of a series of high-pitched, buzzing notes, often described as 'tzeee-tzee-tzee' or 'bzzzt-bzzzt-bzzzt', typically delivered from an exposed perch.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland
Conservation Statusvulnerable
Geographic RangeFound in southeastern South America, primarily in Paraguay, northeastern Argentina, and southern Brazil. It is a migratory species, breeding in the southern parts of its range and wintering further north.
Identifying FeaturesExtremely long, stiff, outward-curving tail feathers (male), Black and white plumage with prominent white wing stripe (male), Bright orange-red gape and lores (male), Upright posture on prominent perches in grasslands
Description
This striking flycatcher is renowned for the male's exceptionally long, stiff, and outward-curving tail feathers. Males exhibit a bold black and white plumage with a distinctive red gape, often perching conspicuously in open grasslands to hunt insects.
