Rufous Twistwing

Cnipodectes superrufus

Tyrant Flycatchers and Allies · Passeriformes · Legendary

The Rufous Twistwing (Cnipodectes superrufus) is a legendary tyrant flycatcher found in 3 countries, weighing about 36 g. The rufous twistwing is a species of bird in the family Tyrannidae, the tyrant flycatchers.

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About the Rufous Twistwing

The rufous twistwing is a species of bird in the family Tyrannidae, the tyrant flycatchers. It is found in Brazil, Bolivia, and Peru.

Text adapted from Wikipedia, licensed CC BY-SA 4.0.

How to identify it

The rufous twistwing is 18 to 24 cm (7.1 to 9.4 in) long. Males weigh about 30 to 40 g (1.1 to 1.4 oz) and females about 22 to 26 g (0.78 to 0.92 oz). Adult males are mostly bright rufous and have rather shaggy plumage. They have elongated crown feathers that form a crest, though it is usually held flat. They have grayish lores and prominent rictal bristles. Their wings are somewhat duskier than their back. Their outer primaries have the stiff twisted shafts that give the species its English name. Their chin and belly are somewhat brighter than the back.

Where it lives

Recorded as a rare visitor in Bolivia.

When to see it

Best months: April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, with peak activity in October. It is a variable species across most of its range.

Easily confused with

Quick questions

How do you identify a Rufous Twistwing?
The rufous twistwing is 18 to 24 cm (7.1 to 9.4 in) long. Full identification notes are on this page.
How big is a Rufous Twistwing?
The Rufous Twistwing is a small sized bird weighing about 36 g.
Where can you see a Rufous Twistwing?
The Rufous Twistwing occurs in 3 countries, including Brazil and Peru.
What birds look similar to a Rufous Twistwing?
The Rufous Twistwing is most easily confused with the Brownish Twistwing.
Is the Rufous Twistwing endangered?
The Rufous Twistwing is listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List.

Learn the Rufous Twistwing for real

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