The dusky spinetail is a species of bird in the Furnariinae subfamily of the ovenbird family Furnariidae. It is found in Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru.
Region
Western Amazon Basin and Andean foothills
Typical Environment
Occurs from southern Colombia through eastern Ecuador to northern Peru, mainly on the Amazonian slope and adjacent lowlands. Prefers dense second-growth scrub, vine tangles, bamboo thickets, and forest edges, often near streams or clearings. It is patchy but can be locally common where suitable cover persists. Avoids open areas and interior tall forest, favoring tangled understory and regenerating habitats.
Altitude Range
100–1500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A furtive furnariid, the dusky spinetail keeps low in dense thickets and edge scrub, often revealing itself by its fast, chattering duet. Like many spinetails, it builds a bulky, domed stick nest with a side entrance. Its stiff, rufous tail feathers aid in maneuvering through tangles. It is more often heard than seen, responding well to pishing or playback in suitable habitat.
Temperament
skulking and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with low, darting flights
Social Behavior
Usually found in pairs or small family groups that keep to dense cover. Pairs maintain territories and often perform duets. Nests are bulky, domed stick structures with a side entrance, placed low to mid-level in dense vegetation.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a fast, dry chatter that may accelerate, often given as a duet by the pair. Calls include sharp chips and rattles from within dense cover. Vocalizations are a key aid to detection.
