Ochre-flanked Tapaculo

Overview

The ochre-flanked tapaculo (Eugralla paradoxa) is a small bird in the family Rhinocryptidae. It is the sole member of its genus and occurs in South America.

Identification

• Measures 14.5 cm in length, with adult males weighing between 28.6 and 30.5 g.
• Upper parts are dark gray, underparts are paler gray, and the abdomen and vent are clay brown with tawny brown flanks.
• Adults possess an unusual 'Roman nose' facial profile for a tapaculo.
• Song consists of a short series of sharp 'check' notes, with pairs maintaining contact via a softer 'kek' call.

Habitat

Found in south-central Chile from the Maule Region to Los Lagos Region, and adjacent western provinces of Neuquén, Río Negro, and Chubut in Argentina. It inhabits dense undergrowth and bamboo within Nothofagus forests and mature secondary woodlands from sea level up to 900 m and possibly higher.

Diet

This species forages in pairs on or near the ground within dense cover. Its primary prey is thought to be arthropods.

Did you know?

The bird is known to 'double brood', laying eggs in September and again in November. Its nest is a large ball of straw and grass with a side entrance, placed 1 to 2 m above the ground, though occasionally as high as 7 m.