The crested gallito is a species of suboscine passerine bird in the tapaculo family Rhinocryptidae. It is the only species placed in the genus Rhinocrypta. It is found in Argentina, Bolivia, and Paraguay.
Region
Gran Chaco
Typical Environment
Occurs in the dry and semi-arid Gran Chaco of northern Argentina, western Paraguay, and southeastern Bolivia. It favors thorny scrub, dry woodland with dense understory, and brushy edges, especially with quebracho and algarrobo. Birds keep close to the ground, using tangled shrubs and cactus stands for cover. It also uses dry washes, overgrown fencelines, and second-growth thickets.
Altitude Range
0–1500 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The crested gallito is a ground-dwelling tapaculo famed for its prominent, erect crest and habit of cocking its long tail while it dashes through dense scrub. It often remains hidden, but delivers a loud, ringing song from low perches. Adapted to the dry Chaco, it prefers thorny thickets where it forages among leaf litter. Despite habitat loss in parts of its range, it is currently assessed as not globally threatened.
Temperament
secretive and skulking
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats, low and brief
Social Behavior
Usually solitary or in pairs, maintaining territories in dense scrub. Nests are placed low, typically well concealed in thick vegetation; both sexes are thought to participate in care. Courtship includes tail-cocking displays and vocal duets in some pairs.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A loud, ringing series of clear whistles that accelerate or crescendo, often delivered from a low perch within cover. Calls include sharp chips and rattling notes used for contact and alarm.
