Loja Tapaculo

Overview

The Loja tapaculo (Scytalopus androstictus) is a small bird that was elevated from subspecies to full species status in 2020 following the recognition of significant vocal, genetic, and morphological differences from the paramo tapaculo. It is found in Ecuador and Peru.

Identification

• Approximately 10.5 cm long, with males weighing between 13.9 and 17.9 g and females between 13.4 and 16 g.
• Males are very dark grey above with medium to dark grey undersides, tawny to dark brown barred flanks and vents, and white primary coverts visible as a patch on the folded wing.
• Females are brown above with pale to medium grey undersides and brownish flanks and vents.
• Juveniles are highly variable, typically showing shades of brown and barring above and grey or buff below.

Habitat

Restricted to the eastern slope of the Andes in Zamora-Chinchipe Province, Ecuador, and northern Cajamarca, Peru, at elevations between 2,600 and 3,300 m. It inhabits shrub and scrublands at or above treeline, as well as Polylepis woodland and high-elevation humid forest.

Did you know?

For several years, this bird was considered a subspecies of the paramo tapaculo before being split into its own species in 2020 after detailed studies revealed distinct genetic and vocal differences.