Scribble-tailed Canastero

Overview

The scribble-tailed canastero is a species of ovenbird in the Furnariidae family. It is found in the high-altitude regions of Peru, Bolivia, and Argentina. The species is currently classified as Least Concern by the IUCN, although its population is believed to be decreasing.

Identification

• Approximately 17 cm long with a large body relative to other canasteros and a long tail featuring a unique ragged mix of rufescent to buff-brown, dark brown, and olive-brown streaks on the pointed feathers.
• Adult plumage includes a rufous forehead blending into a blackish brown crown, a faint pale supercilium, and a dark brown stripe behind the eye on a buffy face.
• Song consists of a series of 'tree' notes ending in a fast, descending trill, accompanied by calls described as rising whistled 'tuuuiit' or 'tooeee'.
• Legs are olive to olive-green, with brown irises and a maxilla that is gray to dark gray.

Habitat

This species has a disjunct distribution in the Andes of southern Peru and west-central Bolivia, as well as northwestern Argentina. It inhabits páramo grasslands near the tree line, characterised by lush tall bunch grass and low shrubs, typically between elevations of 3,000 and 4,300 m but locally as low as 2,250 m.

Diet

The scribble-tailed canastero feeds on arthropods, foraging singly or in pairs primarily on the ground and in low vegetation. It has been observed flying up to capture insects on the wing.

Did you know?

Despite being a year-round resident throughout its range, nothing is known about its breeding biology. The species is thought to be highly susceptible to overgrazing and burning, which may contribute to its declining population trend.