The Chaco earthcreeper is a species of bird in the Furnariinae subfamily of the ovenbird family Furnariidae. It is found in Argentina, Bolivia, and Paraguay, and as a vagrant in Brazil.
Region
Gran Chaco of South America
Typical Environment
Occurs widely in the dry Gran Chaco of Argentina, Bolivia, and Paraguay, with occasional vagrants into adjacent Brazil. It favors xeric thorn forest and scrub dominated by quebracho, algarrobo (Prosopis), and cacti. The species uses edges, ranchlands with scattered shrubs, and eroded banks along roads or streams. It tolerates moderately disturbed landscapes so long as low shrubs and open ground remain. In very open sites it keeps close to cover, moving between bushes while foraging.
Altitude Range
0–1500 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The Chaco earthcreeper is a ground-oriented ovenbird specialized for probing in dry thorny scrub. It often forages along roadsides, dry washes, and at the base of shrubs and cacti. Its plaintive whistles carry far in the quiet Chaco, making it easier to detect than its subdued plumage suggests.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats, low and direct
Social Behavior
Usually seen alone or in pairs, maintaining year-round territories. It nests in cavities, often at the end of a short tunnel excavated in earthen banks or similar substrates, lining the chamber with plant fibers. Pairs communicate with duets and perform short chases during territorial encounters.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a series of clear, slightly descending whistles delivered from a low perch or shrub top. Calls include sharp, carrying notes used to keep contact while foraging in dense scrub.
Plumage
Overall earthy brown with slightly warmer rufous tones in the wings and tail; underparts pale buff to whitish with light streaking on the breast. A clean whitish throat contrasts with dusky cheeks and a pale supercilium. Feathers are plain-textured, giving a smooth, unspotted look except for faint breast streaks.
Diet
Primarily takes arthropods such as beetles, spiders, ants, and caterpillars. It probes the soil, leaf litter, and bark crevices with its slightly decurved bill. Occasional small seeds or plant matter may be ingested incidentally while foraging on the ground. It often flips leaf litter and searches at the bases of shrubs and cacti.
Preferred Environment
Feeds in open patches within thorn scrub, along road cuts, dry streambeds, and around fencelines where bare ground is available. It stays close to cover, moving between low bushes while foraging on or just above the ground.
