Cream-winged Cinclodes

Overview

The cream-winged cinclodes (Cinclodes albiventris) is a small bird belonging to the ovenbird family Furnariidae. It was previously considered part of a larger species but was recognised as a distinct entity in 2009 following a split of the bar-winged cinclodes complex.

Identification

• Size: A small cinclodes, measuring 15 to 19 cm in length and weighing between 20 and 34 g.
• Plumage: Features a rusty-gray crown and upperparts with dark brown wing coverts edged in wide buffish tones, creating a distinct cream band across the flight feathers.
• Markings: Characterised by a light buffish-white supercilium, dark gray-brown ear coverts with pale streaks, a white malar area, and entirely whitish underparts.
• Song: Produces a rising twittery trill described as 'trrrreee'i'i'i'i'i', along with sharp 'pfip' notes and high-pitched tinkling calls.

Habitat

Found in the Andes of northern Peru, western Bolivia, northern Chile, and northwestern Argentina, typically between 2,100 m and 5,000 m in elevation. It inhabits open grassy environments such as páramo and puna grasslands, agricultural fields, and arid montane scrublands, usually near water sources like bogs and streams. The species is often seen around human habitations and is common across its range.

Diet

Feeds on a variety of invertebrates, including many insects, as well as seeds. Foraging behaviour involves hopping and running on the ground singly or in pairs, probing and gleaning from wet and dry ground, rocks, grass, dung, and shallow water.

Did you know?

The species excavates burrows at the end of tunnels in earth banks to nest, flooring the chamber with grass and hair. It likely also utilises holes in human structures' walls for nesting purposes.