Chilean tinamou

The Chilean tinamou is a type of tinamou commonly found in high elevation shrubland in subtropical regions of central Chile.

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Distribution

Region

Central Chile

Typical Environment

Occurs in Mediterranean-type shrubland (matorral), open scrub, grassy hillsides, and edges of agricultural fields. It favors dry, brushy slopes with scattered shrubs and patches of grass for cover. In cultivated landscapes it uses fallow fields, vineyard margins, and hedgerows. Though often associated with foothills and higher terraces, it may also be found in lower valleys where cover persists.

Altitude Range

Sea level to 2000 m

Climate Zone

Subtropical

Characteristics

Size28–32 cm

Wing Span45–50 cm

Male Weight0.35 kg

Female Weight0.4 kg

Life Expectancy8 years

Ease of Keeping

Beginner friendly: 2/5

Useful to know

This ground-dwelling tinamou is endemic to central Chile’s matorral and farmlands and typically bursts into a short, explosive flight only when flushed. Males incubate and raise the brood, often from a clutch laid by multiple females. Its cryptic, vermiculated plumage makes it difficult to spot among dry shrubs and grasses.

Gallery

Behaviour

Temperament

shy and cryptic

Flight Pattern

short rapid wingbeats with explosive flush; prefers to run

Social Behavior

Often seen singly, in pairs, or small coveys outside the breeding season. Nests on the ground in concealed scrapes. Males incubate and rear chicks, commonly caring for mixed clutches from several females.

Migratory Pattern

Resident

Song Description

Gives mellow, whistled, flute-like notes, often carrying over distance in early morning and late afternoon. Calls are simple, repeated phrases used for contact and territorial advertisement.

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Identification

Comb Type

Plumage Description

Feather Color

Leg Color

Earlobe Color

Eye Color

Feeding Habits

Diet

Preferred Environment

Requires Supplement

Population

Conservation Status

Species Status

Wild Population

Total Known Population

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