This large elaenia ranges from southeastern Colombia through eastern Ecuador and Peru to western Bolivia. Its raised crest and white crown patch stand out, and it uses moist shrubland, landslides, riparian growth, and forest clearings.
About 18 cm long, with a prominent forked crest that gives a horned look. The upperparts are brown-olive, the crown has a large white patch, and the wings have two pale bars. Sexes are similar, with females slightly smaller.
It often perches upright on an exposed branch with its crest raised, feeds on insects and small fruits, and makes short sallies to catch prey.
An extinction-risk assessment has not been added yet.