© Jeff Tingle
© Oscar Ramirez Alan
© Jim Zook

Lesser Elaenia Elaenia chiriquensis

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Identification

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Confusing flycatcher, fairly small and nondescript. Like many other elaenias and flycatchers, brownish-olive above, pale gray on the throat, and pale yellow on the belly, with whitish wingbars. Only shows a slight crest and very little facial pattern. Usually seen in more open habitats like forest edge or second growth, singly or in pairs, sometimes following a mixed-species flock. Best identified by voice, which varies across range. Call is typically a single high-pitched “pseew”, sometimes buzzy and sometimes clear. Also gives a harsh stuttered song, varying from a short “chi-bur” to a longer series of notes.

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