The curve-billed tinamou is a type of tinamou commonly found in high-altitude grassland and shrubland habitats in the Andes of South America.
Region
Andes Mountains
Typical Environment
Occurs in high-altitude puna grasslands, tussock slopes, and shrub-dotted hillsides of the central Andean cordillera. It favors dry to semi-arid uplands with scattered rocks and bunchgrasses that provide cover. Birds often use ecotones where grasslands meet low scrub, and may forage along edges of agricultural plots. The species is mostly sedentary, shifting locally with weather and food availability.
Altitude Range
3000–4800 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
The curve-billed tinamou is a ground-dwelling bird of the high Andes, where it blends into grasslands and shrublands with cryptic plumage. Like other tinamous, males incubate eggs from multiple females and raise the chicks. It prefers to run and hide, flushing only in short, explosive flights when disturbed. Its slightly decurved bill helps it probe soil for bulbs, seeds, and invertebrates.
Temperament
secretive and wary
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with explosive flush; low, brief flights
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly or in small coveys outside the breeding season, keeping close to ground cover. During breeding, males establish small territories, gather clutches from multiple females, and perform all incubation and chick-rearing. Nests are shallow ground scrapes hidden under grass tussocks or shrubs.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Gives mellow, far-carrying whistled notes, often a series of clear, descending whistles repeated at intervals. Calls are most frequent at dawn and dusk and can travel long distances across open slopes.
