White-bellied Spinetail

Overview

The white-bellied spinetail (Mazaria propinqua) is a species of ovenbird found in the western Amazon Basin. It is a resident species on river islands across South America, including parts of Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, French Guiana, and Peru.

Identification

• Size: 14.5 to 16 cm long, weighing 16 to 22 g.
• Plumage: Grayish brown upperparts with a dull rufous, pointed tail; white belly, gray breast, and black lower throat with white fringes.
• Bill and Legs: Black maxilla, pale gray mandible, and olive or olive-gray legs and feet.
• Song: A strange, low-pitched, and nasal churring sound, also described as a harsh, grating chatter.

Habitat

This lowland bird inhabits early successional growth on river islands, favoring grassy areas with scattered bushes and small trees. Its range includes major rivers such as the Napo, Pastaza, and Ucayali, reaching elevations of up to 200 m in some areas.

Diet

The white-bellied spinetail is insectivorous, typically foraging singly or in pairs by gleaning prey from grasses, small branches, and foliage within about 2 m of the ground. It has also been observed making short sally flights to catch food.

Did you know?

Despite being resident on river islands year-round, the species has never been documented on the 'mainland', even though some islands flood during the rainy season.