Widespread terrestrial flycatcher of Andean habitats, ranging locally to foothills in winter. Found in varied habitats from puna plains and bogs to scrubby slopes and agricultural terraces. Perches on weed stalks and shrubs more often than other ground-tyrants. Plumage blue-gray overall with rusty nape patch (rusty in south, paler cinnamon in middle of range, and darkest in north—perhaps three cryptic species); nape patch can be hard to see, but note relatively fine and slightly tipped bill, unlike similar species.