Crested Gallito

Overview

The crested gallito (Rhinocrypta lanceolata) is a suboscine passerine bird and the sole member of the genus Rhinocrypta. It belongs to the tapaculo family Rhinocryptidae and is currently classified as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List.

Identification

• A 21 cm long bird with long crown feathers that are often erected as a crest and bent forward, along with a long tail cocked upward.
• The nominate subspecies features a cinnamon head with white streaks, olive-gray upper parts, a pale gray throat and chest, chestnut breast sides, and an olive-gray lower belly.
• During the breeding season, it produces a loud, resonant 'chirrup' at intervals of 2-4 seconds, with a call described as a trilled 'wheer'.

Habitat

Found in northern and central Argentina, southeastern Bolivia, and western Paraguay, the species inhabits Chaco forest and frequents thorny brush and undergrowth. The nominate subspecies ranges from sea level to 1,800 m, whereas R. l. saturata is restricted to lower elevations.

Diet

The crested gallito forages on the ground or through low branches for arthropods.

Did you know?

The species' nest, constructed from a ball of grass and other materials lined with hair or wool, is a known target for parasitism by shiny cowbirds (Molothrus bonariensis).