The Masafuera rayadito is a Critically Endangered species of bird in the Furnariinae subfamily of the ovenbird family Furnariidae. It is endemic to Alejandro Selkirk Island in the Juan Fernández Islands of Chile.
Region
Juan Fernández Islands, Chile
Typical Environment
Restricted to Alejandro Selkirk Island, where it inhabits dense native shrublands, fern thickets, and rocky ravines. It forages through tangles of vegetation, along cliffs, and among ground-level ferns and shrubs. The species favors structurally complex, moist montane habitats and edge zones with abundant cover. It is largely absent from exposed grasslands and heavily degraded areas. Most activity is concentrated in higher elevations where native vegetation persists.
Altitude Range
500–1600 m
Climate Zone
Temperate
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This small furnariid is confined to a single island and is among Chile’s most threatened birds. It often nests in rock crevices or natural cavities where trees are scarce, and conservationists have deployed nest boxes to boost breeding success. Habitat degradation and introduced predators have driven its severe decline. It is a close relative of the more widespread Thorn-tailed Rayadito but is larger and darker.
Temperament
active and inquisitive
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with quick dashes between cover
Social Behavior
Typically seen singly or in pairs during the breeding season and in small family groups afterward. Nests are placed in rock crevices, earthen cavities, or artificial nest boxes when available. Both parents participate in provisioning; territories are defended vigorously in suitable patches of native vegetation.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A high, thin series of fast trills and ticks delivered from low perches or within shrubs. Contact calls are sharp, scolding chips used while foraging. Vocalizations carry surprisingly well in windy montane habitat.
Plumage
Dusky-brown upperparts with fine buffy streaking and paler underparts faintly streaked on the breast. Long, graduated tail with stiff, spiny-tipped feathers typical of rayaditos. Subtle contrast between darker crown and a paler supercilium gives a capped look.
Diet
Primarily small arthropods such as insects and spiders gleaned from foliage, stems, and rocky surfaces. It probes among fern fronds, bark, and leaf litter to extract hidden prey. Occasional larvae and other soft-bodied invertebrates are taken when abundant.
Preferred Environment
Feeds in dense shrubs, fern thickets, and along rocky ledges with abundant cover. Frequently works through vertical layers of vegetation, from near-ground to mid-story, using agile creeper-like movements.
