Bolivian Earthcreeper

Overview

The Bolivian earthcreeper (Tarphonomus harterti) is a small, monotypic species of ovenbird found in the Andes of Bolivia and potentially northern Argentina. It is currently assessed as Least Concern by the IUCN, though its population is believed to be decreasing.

Identification

• Small bird approximately 16 cm long with a long, very slightly decurved bill.
• Mostly dark brownish face with a wide buff supercilium, contrasting with white throat and cheeks.
• Rich brown back and rump with reddish-brown uppertail coverts and rufous-chestnut bases on tail feathers.
• Song consists of 7–15 loud, dry, clear 'zeet' notes that increase in intensity and descend in pitch, ending in a chatter.

Habitat

This species inhabits arid montane scrublands that include short deciduous woodland at elevations between 1,400 and 3,000 m. Its range is located in the Andes of the southern Bolivian departments of Cochabamba, Santa Cruz, and Chuquisaca, with some authorities extending it into northern Argentina.

Diet

The diet consists almost entirely of arthropods, though tiny molluscs have also been recorded. It usually forages alone, gleaning and probing for prey on the ground and in rock crevices.

Did you know?

Despite having an unknown population size, the Bolivian earthcreeper appears to tolerate moderate to severe disturbance by humans.