Three-striped Flycatcher

A nighthawk of forests and clearings in the subtropical zone of the Andes from Venezuela to Bolivia. Rather chunky and short-tailed, with intricately patterned upperparts (usually including big white patches in the scapulars) and a tawny-rufous belly. In flight, looks big-headed with rather broad, angular wings and a fairly short, squared-off tail. Usually seen at dusk flying over cloud forest, but can also be seen roosting during the day on horizontal branches (if you’re lucky!) Similar to Short-tailed Nighthawk but found at higher elevations.

Tiny resident of tall rainforest. Wary and can be difficult to see well; note distinctive sputtering alarm call, tiny size, plain face, and large white (male) or buffy (female) wing spots. Generally found in pairs near treefall gaps and other places with dense understory; does not follow mixed-species flocks. Forages in low vegetation, rarely venturing more than a meter or two above the ground. Song of male is somewhat similar to Common Scale-backed Antbird, but has thinner quality and does not rise in pitch.

Fairly common, but often retiring, in tropical lowlands of both drier and more humid areas. Occurs across much of South America, from Colombia to Argentina. Can be found from sea level to around 1,500 m elevation. Favors forest edge, second growth thickets, hedges, and tangles, especially with morning glory flowers, which it munches quietly. Note plain bluish-gray coloration with warm tawny vent and short white eyebrow. Immature looks slightly different, with a yellowish wash to the face and upperparts. Listen for sweet song with slurred whistles.