The henna-hooded foliage-gleaner is a Near Threatened species of bird in the Furnariinae subfamily of the ovenbird family Furnariidae. It is found in Ecuador and Peru.
Region
Tumbesian Region of southwestern Ecuador and northwestern Peru
Typical Environment
Occurs in seasonally dry deciduous and semi-humid forests, especially where dense undergrowth, vine tangles, and bamboo-like thickets are present. It also uses riparian edges, secondary growth, and forest borders, keeping close to the ground or mid-understory. The species favors tangled vegetation along slopes and stream gullies where leaf litter and suspended dead leaves are abundant. It is typically absent from heavily degraded open areas.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1600 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A skulking ovenbird of the Tumbesian dry forests, the henna-hooded foliage-gleaner is named for its rich rufous hood that contrasts with its duller body. It forages by prying into curled dead leaves and dense vine tangles for hidden arthropods, often in pairs or small family groups. Habitat loss in southwestern Ecuador and northwestern Peru has led to concern for the species’ future.
Temperament
skulking and wary
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats, usually low through dense understory
Social Behavior
Usually found singly, in pairs, or small family groups, and sometimes joins mixed-species flocks in the understory. Pairs maintain territories year-round. Nests are placed in concealed sites within dense vegetation or cavities, with both adults attending young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations include a dry, accelerating series of sharp notes that can build into a rattling phrase. Calls are harsh chips and chatters given from cover, often in response to disturbance.
Plumage
Warm rufous hood and nape contrasting with olive-brown back and wings; underparts pale grayish to buff with slightly rufescent flanks. Wings and tail show rufous tones; throat often paler, giving subtle contrast. Feathers appear smooth and unspotted, with a clean, hooded look to the head.
Diet
Feeds primarily on arthropods, including insects and their larvae, gleaned from dead leaves, vine tangles, bark, and leaf litter. Uses its strong bill to pry open curled leaves and probe crevices. Occasionally captures small invertebrates by sallying short distances within the understory.
Preferred Environment
Forages in dense thickets, vine tangles, and along shaded streambeds within dry and semi-humid forests. Most feeding occurs in the lower understory and near the ground where leaf litter and suspended dead leaves are abundant.
