Taczanowski's Ground-Tyrant
NameTaczanowski's Ground-Tyrant
Common NameTaczanowski's Ground-Tyrant
Scientific NameMuscisaxicola taczanowskii
FamilyTyrannidae
Wingspan (cm)27.5
Length (cm)16.5
Weight (g)24
Plumage DetailsUpperparts are pale gray, with a slightly darker crown and nape. A prominent whitish supercilium extends from the lores to behind the eye. Lores and ear-coverts are dusky. Wings and tail are dusky brown, with paler edgings on the tertials. Underparts are white, often with a pale gray wash on the flanks and breast sides.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations typically include soft, high-pitched 'tseep' or 'tsit' notes, sometimes delivered as a short, simple trill.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland, mountain
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in the high Andes of Peru, Bolivia, and northern Chile, typically inhabiting puna grasslands and rocky slopes.
Identifying FeaturesOverall gray and white plumage, Distinct whitish supercilium, Dark wings and tail, Terrestrial foraging behavior, Slender black bill and legs
Description
This small, terrestrial flycatcher is characterized by its subtle gray and white plumage, often seen perching on low rocks or mounds in open, high-altitude environments. It forages primarily on the ground, making short dashes to catch insects.
