ID Keys: Greenish-gray upperparts, whitish underparts, White center
on crest (sometimes difficult to see in the field)
The
White-crested Elaenia is widespread in South America, breeding in the
western part of the continent, and wintering in much of the rest of South
America. With a normal range restricted to the continent of South
America, they were unknown in North America until a single bird was
identified in south Texas in 2008. Four years later, in 2012, birders
were shocked to find a White-crested Elaenia on the west side of Chicago,
Illinois. Their namesake, the white crown, is in the middle of small
crest and can sometimes be difficult to see in the field.
Habitat
Found in a variety of forested settings,
including forest edges, forest clearings, and second-growth forest.
Diet
Feeds on insects as wells as small fruits
and berries.
Behavior
Forages by climbing through the branches
and gleaning insects from foliage and branches, or hovering and gleaning
insects. Perches while feeding on fruits and berries.
Nesting
The nest of a White-crested Elaenia is a
cup of grasses, leaves, lichens, mosses, and twigs, lined with plant down or
feathers. The female usually lays 2 or 3 eggs.
Song
Song of a White-crested Elaenia is a short,
slightly harsh two or three phrases.
Migration
Normally breeds in the western Andes
mountains of South America, and in areas in southern South America.
During the southern Hemisphere winter, they can be found throughout much of
the South American continent.
Similar to other Elaenia species found in South America. For its rare
North American appearances, possibly most likely to be confused with grayish
flycatcher species such as the Eastern
Wood-Pewee.
