The crag chilia or crag earthcreeper is a species of bird in the Furnariinae subfamily of the ovenbird family Furnariidae. It is endemic to Chile.
Region
Central and North-Central Chile
Typical Environment
Occupies rocky ravines, cliff faces, and boulder-strewn slopes with sparse scrub. It favors arid to semi-arid foothills and coastal ranges where vertical rock and talus are abundant. Vegetation is typically low Mediterranean scrub or desert scrub with cacti and scattered shrubs. The species forages and nests in cracks and ledges, rarely venturing far from rugged rock.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 3000 m
Climate Zone
Arid
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The crag chilia is the sole member of the genus Chilia, a specialized earthcreeper adapted to life on steep rock faces. It spends much of its time clambering over boulders and cliff crevices in north-central Chile. Nests are typically tucked deep within rocky cracks, offering protection from predators and harsh weather. Its rufous tail with a darker tip is a key field mark when it darts between rocks.
Temperament
secretive and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with low, direct dashes between rocks
Social Behavior
Usually found singly or in pairs that maintain year-round territories on rocky slopes. Pairs nest in deep crevices or holes in cliffs and boulder piles, lining the cavity with grasses and fibers. Clutches are small, and both parents participate in incubation and feeding.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a sharp series of metallic chips that accelerates into a trilled rattle, delivered from a prominent rock or ledge. Calls include dry clicks and chatters used to keep contact with a mate across broken terrain.
Plumage
Earthy brown upperparts with a slightly warmer tone on the wings, paler buffy underparts with faint streaking, and a contrasting rufous tail with a darker subterminal band. A subtle pale supercilium and slightly mottled throat are often visible. Feathers are compact and smooth, aiding a sleek profile along rock faces.
Diet
Feeds primarily on arthropods such as beetles, ants, spiders, and larvae gleaned from rock crevices and under stones. It probes cracks and ledges with its slightly decurved bill, often prying loose debris to extract prey. Occasional small seeds or plant fragments may be taken incidentally while foraging.
Preferred Environment
Forages on cliff faces, talus slopes, and boulder fields with scattered scrub. Most feeding occurs close to the ground or on vertical surfaces where insects shelter.
