The dusky-tailed canastero is a species of bird in the Furnariinae subfamily of the ovenbird family Furnariidae. It is endemic to Chile.
Region
Central Chile
Typical Environment
Found in the Mediterranean-climate shrublands of central Chile, especially in dense matorral, thorn scrub, and rocky slopes. It frequents ravines, foothills, and scrubby edges of agricultural land. The species keeps close to cover, moving through shrubs and along the ground while foraging. It tolerates semi-arid conditions and is common where native shrub communities persist.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 2000 m
Climate Zone
Temperate
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
A skulking furnariid of Chile’s matorral, it spends much of its time low in dense shrubs with its tail slightly cocked. The name canastero comes from Spanish for “basket-maker,” referencing the bulky, basket-like stick nests typical of the group. Its song is a dry, accelerating series of trills and chatters that carries well through scrubby hillsides.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats, usually low over scrub
Social Behavior
Typically found singly or in pairs, maintaining territories year-round. Pairs cooperate to build bulky, basket-like nests of sticks placed in shrubs or low vegetation. They remain close to cover and use tail flicks and quick dashes between bushes when disturbed.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A dry, accelerating series of trills and scratchy chatters, often delivered from within shrubs or low perches. Calls include sharp ticks and rasping notes used for contact and alarm.
