The diademed tapaculo is a species of bird in the family Rhinocryptidae. It is found in Bolivia and Peru.
Region
Central Andes
Typical Environment
Occurs in humid montane and cloud forests of southern Peru and adjacent northern Bolivia. It favors dense understory with Chusquea bamboo, mossy thickets, and forest edges, often near ravines and stream gullies. The species keeps close to the ground, using tangles and root mats for cover. It can also be found in elfin forest and stunted montane scrub above continuous forest.
Altitude Range
2600–3800 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The diademed tapaculo is a shy, ground-dwelling bird of Andean cloud forests, named for the pale 'diadem' across its forecrown that contrasts with its otherwise dark plumage. It spends much of its time hidden in dense bamboo and mossy understory, more often heard than seen. Its song is a clear, accelerating series of notes that helps birders distinguish it from similar tapaculos.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Typically seen alone or in pairs, keeping to dense cover and running or hopping rather than flying. Males sing from concealed perches within bamboo or mossy tangles to defend territories. Nests are usually domed balls of moss or fibers with a side entrance, placed low in banks or dense vegetation.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A clear, high-pitched series of notes that accelerates and may rise slightly in pitch, delivered persistently from cover. Calls include sharp chips and thin seep notes.
