The eye-ringed thistletail is a species of bird in the Furnariinae subfamily of the ovenbird family Furnariidae. It is endemic to central Peru.
Region
Andes Mountains
Typical Environment
Endemic to the central Peruvian Andes, where it inhabits humid montane shrublands, elfin forest edges, and dense bunchgrass slopes. It favors patches of Chusquea bamboo, Polylepis- and Gynoxys-dominated thickets, and ravines with rank vegetation. The species keeps close to the ground, using dense cover on steep slopes and along wet seeps. It is typically patchy in occurrence but can be locally fairly common in suitable habitat.
Altitude Range
2800–4300 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Formerly placed in the genus Schizoeaca, the eye-ringed thistletail is a high-Andean furnariid that creeps mouse-like through dense grasses and shrubs. Its stiff, graduated tail helps it balance and maneuver while foraging in bunchgrass and bamboo. The species is shy but reveals itself with sharp chips and a fast, high trilling song.
Temperament
skulking and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats, usually low and brief
Social Behavior
Usually found singly or in pairs, especially during the breeding season. Pairs maintain small territories and often duet or give contact calls while foraging. Nests are typically domed or ball-like structures of grass placed low in dense bunchgrass or shrubs.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A fast, high-pitched trill or series of thin, buzzy notes that accelerates slightly, often delivered from a low perch within cover. Calls include sharp chips and rattling notes, giving an insect-like quality.
