The Cuzco warbler is a South American species of bird in the family Parulidae. Its natural habitats are subtropical or tropical moist lowland forests, subtropical or tropical moist montane forests, and heavily degraded former forest. The bird was split from the golden-bellied warbler.
Region
Andes Mountains
Typical Environment
Occurs on the humid east slope of the central and southern Andes, primarily in southeastern Peru and adjacent western Bolivia. It inhabits subtropical and tropical moist montane forests, forest edges, and regenerating second growth. The species is especially common in dense understory, vine tangles, and bamboo (Chusquea) thickets, often near streams and ravines. It tolerates moderately degraded forest but relies on substantial understory cover. Local presence can be patchy, tracking suitable undergrowth and moisture.
Altitude Range
800–2600 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The Cuzco warbler is a South American wood-warbler named for the Cusco region of Peru, and it was split taxonomically from the broader golden-bellied warbler complex. It frequents dense, humid Andean forest undergrowth where it often forages in pairs and joins mixed-species flocks. It tends to flick its tail and skulk close to the ground or along stream ravines. Its bright yellow underparts stand out in the dim forest understory.
Temperament
secretive but active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually found singly or in pairs in the understory, often accompanying mixed-species flocks moving through mid- to lower strata. Nests are typically placed low in dense vegetation or banks, with both parents attending the young. Territorial during breeding but otherwise tolerant of other small passerines when foraging.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a series of thin, high-pitched whistles and short trills that accelerate slightly, carrying well in damp forest. Calls include sharp chips and sibilant tseet notes given while foraging.
Plumage
Olive upperparts with a contrasting gray hood and bright yellow underparts; plumage smooth and sleek, adapted to dense understory. Subtle facial patterning includes a pale supercilium and dusky lores. Wings and tail are olive without bold wingbars.
Diet
Primarily takes small arthropods such as insects and spiders gleaned from leaves, stems, and the forest floor. It probes vine tangles and bamboo culms and occasionally sallies short distances for flushed prey. Small berries may be taken opportunistically but form a minor part of the diet.
Preferred Environment
Feeds in dense understory of humid montane forest, along stream edges, ravines, and bamboo thickets. Often forages within a few meters of the ground where leaf litter and shaded foliage concentrate invertebrates.
