The moustached turca is a passerine bird which is endemic to Chile and belongs to the tapaculo family Rhinocryptidae. Common names of this species include "Turco" or "Turca". It is a terrestrial bird that burrows its nest on steep hillsides and uses flight for short distances. It is not threatened, yet it is unfortunately an understudied species of bird.
Region
Central Chile (Chilean Matorral)
Typical Environment
Found in the coastal and Andean foothills of central Chile, especially in dense matorral scrub, rocky ravines, and edges of sclerophyll forests. It favors steep, eroded banks where it can excavate nesting burrows. Birds often keep close to dense shrubs, moving by quick runs and short hops. It also uses open, rocky patches for foraging, darting back to cover when disturbed.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 2000 m
Climate Zone
Temperate
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The moustached turca is a ground-dwelling tapaculo endemic to central Chile, famous for its bold white 'moustache' stripes on the face. It digs burrow nests into steep earthen banks and prefers to run rather than fly, using its strong legs and tail for balance. Its ringing, far‑carrying song is a hallmark of Chilean matorral hillsides.
A moustached turca at the entrance of a nesting hole.
Temperament
wary and terrestrial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Typically found in pairs or family groups, maintaining territories year-round. Nests are burrows dug into steep banks, lined with vegetation. Both parents participate in care, and birds stay close to dense cover while foraging.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A loud, ringing series of whistles and accelerating notes that carry far across scrubby hillsides. Calls include sharp chips and scolds when alarmed; pairs may duet.
