Tyrant Flycatchers

Tyrannidae is the most speciose bird family and one of the three main branches of passerine diversity in the Neotropics. Many genera have diversified into large numbers of very similar species that pose a challenge in field identification. Most have large heads with at least the suggestion of a regal crest, long tails, upright posture, and a hint of yellow or green in their plumage. Exceptions to this rule include some enchanting all white, all black, or even scarlet birds; others with bizarre or very long tail feathers; and still others whose morphologies have evolved into forms that are convergent with todies, shrikes, thrushes, or tits. No matter their form, they are generally energetic sallying insectivores.