Cock-tailed tyrant  (Alectrurus tricolor)

As a permanent occupant of grasslands, the cock-tailed tyrant is threatened by habitat loss due to agricultural development, live-stock farming, plantations and mining throughout its range. As it relies upon tall grassland, it is particularly vulnerable to the effects of intensive livestock grazing, trampling and regular burning (2).

Found in Emas National Park, Gama-Cabeça de Veado Environmental Protection Area, Brasília National Park, Seera da Canastra National Park and Säo Miguel Wildlife Sanctuary in Brazil, as well as San Rafael National Park and Tapytá Private Nature Reserve in Paraguay, the cock-tailed should find some protection, although enforcement of the boundaries of protected areas is often poor. Surveys to determine the status of this species are necessary. In addition, controlling dry season burning and encouraging farmers to set aside areas of tall grass will help to halt the continuing decline of this species (2).