The dark-bellied cinclodes is a species of bird in the Furnariinae subfamily of the ovenbird family Furnariidae. It is found in Argentina and Chile.
Region
Southern Andes and Patagonian coasts
Typical Environment
Occurs in southern Chile and Argentina from central-south latitudes to Tierra del Fuego, using both marine shorelines and freshwater margins. Common along rocky and cobble coasts, tide pools, and kelp-strewn beaches, as well as rivers, lakes, and peat bog edges. It also occupies human-modified shorelines such as harbors and seawalls where natural rocky substrates persist. The species is typically tied to the immediate water’s edge, moving over exposed rocks and open ground. In inland areas it prefers fast, clear streams with stony banks.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 2500 m
Climate Zone
Temperate
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A hardy shore-loving furnariid of southern South America, the dark-bellied cinclodes frequents wave-battered coasts as well as the edges of lakes and fast-flowing streams. It often forages among kelp wrack and rocky crevices, probing for invertebrates with its slightly decurved bill. Pairs commonly defend linear territories along shorelines and nest in burrows or rock cavities. Its adaptability to harsh winds and cold spray makes it a characteristic bird of Patagonia.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
low, direct flight with short rapid wingbeats close to the water or ground
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly or in pairs, maintaining linear territories along shorelines. Monogamous pairs nest in burrows dug into banks or in natural crevices among rocks; both parents attend the young. Outside the breeding season it may tolerate loose proximity to neighbors where food is concentrated.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
Song is a bright, tinkling series of short trills and chatters delivered from rocks or low perches. Calls include sharp chips and scolding notes when alarmed, especially near the nest.
Plumage
Overall dark brown to sooty brown with a paler throat and darker belly; warm rufous tones show in the wings and tail in flight. Subtle streaking on the throat and upper breast, with plain darker underparts toward the belly. Feathers are tight and sleek, suited to wet, windy habitats.
Diet
Feeds mainly on aquatic and shoreline invertebrates such as insect larvae, beetles, amphipods, isopods, small mollusks, and worms. Probes into wrack, crevices, and wet sand with its decurved bill, often flipping seaweed or pebbles. Occasionally takes small prey flushed by wave action or flowing water.
Preferred Environment
Forages at the immediate edges of rocky coasts, tide pools, and cobble beaches, as well as along rivers, streams, and lake margins. Often concentrates where kelp and other debris accumulate, and around exposed rocks at low tide.
