The chestnut-backed thornbird is a Near Threatened species of bird in the family Furnariidae. It is endemic to Peru.
Region
Andes Mountains
Typical Environment
Occurs locally in the arid intermontane valleys of northern Peru, centered on the upper Marañón River system. It favors dense thorny scrub, Prosopis–Acacia thickets, and semi-open slopes with cacti and scattered bushes. The species also uses riparian brush and edges of dry woodland, especially where native shrubs form tangled cover. It stays close to the ground to mid-shrub level and often forages within dense, spiny vegetation.
Altitude Range
800–2300 m
Climate Zone
Arid
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This thornbird is confined to the dry inter-Andean Marañón Valley of northern Peru and is sensitive to habitat degradation. Like other thornbirds, it constructs a large, bulky stick nest in thorny shrubs or small trees, often with a side entrance tunnel. It is typically encountered in pairs, keeping low and skulking through dense scrub. Conservation hinges on preserving arid scrub and riverine thickets in its limited range.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually found in pairs or family groups, maintaining territories year-round. Builds large, bulky stick nests in thorny shrubs or small trees; nests often have side tunnels. Both members of the pair participate in nest-building and provisioning.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Delivers a loud, accelerating series of rattles and chattering notes, often given as a duet. Calls include harsh scolds and sharp chips from within dense cover.
