The cordilleran canastero is a species of bird in the Furnariinae subfamily of the ovenbird family Furnariidae. It is found in Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, and Peru.
Region
Andes Mountains
Typical Environment
Occupies open montane habitats of the central and southern Andes in Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, and Peru. It favors arid to semiarid slopes with low shrubs, tola scrub, and bunchgrass (puna) with scattered rocks. Often near edges of Polylepis or other high-elevation woodlands but usually in open ground and shrub mosaics. It keeps close to the ground, using rocks and low bushes for cover while foraging.
Altitude Range
2500–4500 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The Cordilleran canastero is a high-Andean ovenbird known for weaving bulky stick nests tucked into shrubs or grass tussocks—the common name “canastero” references its basket-like nests. It forages low in scrub and bunchgrass, flicking its warm rufous tail. Pairs defend territories year-round and often remain in the same area across seasons.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats, low and direct over ground
Social Behavior
Usually found singly or in pairs that maintain territories throughout the year. Nests are large, bulky structures of sticks and grass placed in shrubs or tussock grass, typically with a side entrance. Both sexes likely participate in nest building and care for the young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A dry, buzzy trill interspersed with sharp chips and chatters, delivered from a low perch or while moving through shrubs. Calls include harsh ticks and scolding notes when alarmed.
Plumage
Earthy brown upperparts with fine darker streaking, paler buffy underparts with light streaking on the breast, and a warm rufous, graduated tail. The crown and nape are subtly streaked; wings show rufous tones in the coverts and edges. Texture appears somewhat loose and shaggy, especially on the back and tail.
Diet
Primarily small arthropods such as beetles, ants, caterpillars, and spiders gleaned from low shrubs, grass tussocks, and the ground. It probes leaf litter and examines rock crevices and stems. Seeds or small plant material may be taken opportunistically, especially in lean seasons, but insects dominate.
Preferred Environment
Forages in open puna and montane scrub with scattered rocks and low bushes. Often works methodically along slopes, stone walls, and grass clumps, staying close to cover.
