Rusty-backed Monjita

The Rusty-backed Monjita is a medium-sized flycatcher endemic to Argentina. Recognizable by its rusty-colored back and tail, this bird stands out against the open grasslands and shrublands it inhabits. Its upright posture and use of exposed perches can help with detection, but finding it depends on suitable habitat and timing. It is migratory, breeding in Patagonia during the austral spring and summer and moving north for winter. The species is generally solitary or found in pairs and often captures insects by running over the ground from low exposed perches; short aerial sallies may also occur. The Rusty-backed Monjita is adapted to arid and semi-arid environments. Its call is a sharp, distinctive note, and during the breeding season, it may perform short display flights.

Argentine endemic · SACC country lists. Exceptional records abroad are treated as vagrants and do not change that status.