Merida Tapaculo

Overview

The Mérida tapaculo (Scytalopus meridanus) is a small bird species endemic to Venezuela, belonging to the family Rhinocryptidae. It was previously considered a subspecies of the brown-rumped tapaculo but was elevated to species status based on vocal differences.

Identification

• Measures 10.5 to 11.5 cm in length and weighs between 13.5 and 16.5 g.
• Males have a dark gray upper body washed with brown, with brown rumps and wings, while females are generally paler with darker brown upperparts and brighter tawny flanks.
• Song begins with a few descending notes that transition into a rising trill.

Habitat

Found exclusively in the Andes of Venezuela, this species inhabits the undergrowth and edges of humid montane forests. The nominate subspecies occurs in Mérida and Táchira States at elevations of 2,200 to 4,000 m, whereas the 'Lara' subspecies is found north of this in Lara and Trujillo States at lower elevations of 1,600 to 3,200 m.

Did you know?

Nests of the 'Lara' subspecies are constructed as globes made of moss, rootlets, and leaves, and are situated in crevices in rock walls.