The flammulated treehunter is a species of bird in the Furnariinae subfamily of the ovenbird family Furnariidae. It is found in Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and Venezuela.
Region
Northern Andes
Typical Environment
Occurs from the Venezuelan Andes through Colombia and Ecuador into northern Peru, primarily in humid montane and cloud forests. It favors moss-laden interiors with abundant epiphytes, as well as forest edges and ravines. Frequently associated with stands of Chusquea bamboo and dense secondary growth near primary forest. Moves through midstory and understory strata, often along steep slopes and gullies.
Altitude Range
1500–3500 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The flammulated treehunter is a large, robust furnariid of mossy Andean cloud forests, named for the flame-like (flammulated) buff streaking across its plumage. It forages methodically along trunks and dense tangles, probing moss, epiphytes, and dead-leaf clusters for hidden prey. Pairs or family groups often keep to shadowy understory and midstory, where their harsh calls reveal them more often than their appearance.
Illustration by Joseph Smit, 1869
Syntypes of Anabates flammulatus Eyton (NML-VZ D1447, NML-VZ D1447a) held at World Museum, National Museums Liverpool.
Temperament
secretive and methodical
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with brief glides; agile in dense understory
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly, in pairs, or small family groups, sometimes accompanying mixed-species flocks. Territorial pairs maintain year-round ranges in suitable forest. Nests are placed in cavities or earthen banks and lined with plant fibers and moss. Both sexes likely participate in nest defense and provisioning.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations include a series of sharp, dry notes and rattling trills delivered from concealed perches. Calls are harsh, scolding chips and chatter used to keep contact in dense cover.
