The cinereous conebill is a species of bird in the tanager family Thraupidae. The term cinereous describes its colouration. It is found in Bolivia, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru. Its natural habitats are subtropical or tropical moist shrubland, subtropical or tropical high-altitude shrubland, and heavily degraded former forest.
Region
Andes Mountains
Typical Environment
Occurs from the Pacific coastal deserts and lomas of Peru and northern Chile to inter-Andean valleys and high-altitude shrublands of Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and Bolivia. It favors arid and semi-arid scrub, Prosopis woodlands, riparian thickets, and rocky slopes with scattered bushes. The species readily uses second growth, agricultural edges, and urban gardens. It is tolerant of habitat degradation and often persists in heavily altered shrublands.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 4000 m
Climate Zone
Arid
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This small tanager is aptly named for its ash-gray (cinereous) tones and sharply pointed, conical bill. It adapts well to human-modified landscapes and is often seen in gardens and hedgerows as well as natural scrub. The species frequently joins mixed-species flocks and also visits flowers for nectar in addition to gleaning insects. Nests are neat, well-camouflaged structures placed in shrubs or small trees.
Temperament
active and inquisitive
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually found singly, in pairs, or small family groups; commonly joins mixed-species foraging flocks in scrub and woodland edges. Pairs are territorial in the breeding season and construct compact, well-hidden nests in shrubs. Both parents participate in provisioning nestlings.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a thin, tinkling series of high-pitched notes delivered in quick sequences. Calls include sharp chips and soft buzzes given while actively foraging. Vocalizations carry well in open scrub despite their delicate quality.
