Priorities for Future Research

As with many Neotropical birds, important aspects of the life history of Paltry Tyrannulet are poorly known. Despite being quite common and familiar in much of its range, information on song types and their geographic differences are no little known. The basic taxonomy of this species is still in need of revision, with many published authorities disagreeing on the number of valid species, ranging from one to four (and possibly as high as six, pending additional sequencing and field observations from eastern Colombia and northern Venezuela). Additional data from field observation and song recordings (e.g. clarification of dawn song, descriptions of courtship) as well as museum specimens (e.g., molt timing and sequence) are needed. Most of the reported information on diet, nesting and behavior comes from Central American populations; there may be significant differences in the populations of eastern Colombia and northern Venezuela.