The bar-tailed treecreeper, or the Himalayan treecreeper, is a species of bird in the family Certhiidae. It is found primarily in the northern parts of the Indian subcontinent, particularly in the Himalayas, as well as in adjoining regions. It is found in Afghanistan, India, Iran, Kazakhstan, Myanmar, Nepal, Tibet, Russia, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan. Its natural habitats are boreal forests and temperate forests.
Region
Himalayas and Central Asia
Typical Environment
Found from Afghanistan and northern Pakistan across India and Nepal into Bhutan, Tibet, and adjoining parts of Myanmar and Central Asia (including the Tien Shan and Pamir ranges). It inhabits coniferous and mixed montane forests dominated by fir, pine, spruce, juniper, and birch. In winter it may descend into lower-elevation broadleaf woodlands, forest edges, and mature parks. Prefers older trees with rough, flaky bark that harbor abundant arthropods.
Altitude Range
1200–4000 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This small treecreeper uses stiff, barbed tail feathers and strong claws to brace itself as it spirals up trunks probing bark for insects. Its cryptic brown-and-buff pattern makes it nearly invisible against lichen-covered conifers. The species is part of a complex of treecreepers and is best told by its distinctly barred tail and warmer tones. It often makes short, mouse-like flights between trees and may move downslope in winter.
A juvenile bar-tailed treecreeper from Dharamkot, Himachal
Temperament
shy and cryptic
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with brief, undulating hops between trees
Social Behavior
Usually solitary or in pairs while foraging, occasionally joining mixed-species flocks in winter. Nests behind loose bark or in crevices, building a cup of bark strips, fibers, and moss. Generally monogamous, with both adults feeding the young.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
A thin, high-pitched, tinkling series of descending notes, often given from mid-canopy. Calls include sharp, squeaky tsii and see notes that can be hard to localize.
