Nesting of the Fulvous-breasted Flatbill (Rhynchocyclus fulvipectus) in Southeastern Perú

Research on the Fulvous-breasted Flatbill (Rhynchocyclus fulvipectus) in southeastern Peru's Manu National Park buffer zone reveals unique nesting behaviors, including a two-egg clutch size and pear-shaped nests, consistent with prior reports. The study, conducted from August to December 2009, used data loggers to monitor seven nests, documenting incubation patterns and provisioning behavior. Key findings include a 24-day incubation period, during which only one parent (likely the female) incubated the eggs with an average attentiveness of 64%, decreasing over time—a pattern contrasting with previous neotropical passerine studies. Nestlings remained in the nest for at least 29 days and exhibited lower body temperatures (37°C) than adults post-feathering, suggesting prolonged dependency. The study also confirmed that Rhynchocyclus nests are exclusively found along creeks or rivers, hinting at longer incubation and nestling periods potentially common in tropical mountain regions.

Ocampo, D., & Londoño, G. A. (2011). Nesting of the Fulvous-breasted Flatbill ( Rhynchocyclus fulvipectus ) in Southeastern Perú. The Wilson Journal of Ornithology, 123(3), 618–624. https://doi.org/10.1676/10-160.1