The neblina tapaculo is a species of bird in the family Rhinocryptidae. It is endemic to the Andes of northern Peru.
Region
Andes Mountains
Typical Environment
Restricted to the northern Peruvian Andes, chiefly in humid montane and elfin forests. It favors dense, mossy undergrowth, bamboo (Chusquea) thickets, and steep ravines. Birds keep close to the ground, using tangles of roots, ferns, and fallen logs for cover. It may occur at forest edges and along trails where dense cover persists, but rarely ventures into open areas.
Altitude Range
2200–3600 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A notoriously skulking tapaculo of humid Andean cloud forests, it is heard far more often than seen. Identification relies heavily on voice because several Peruvian Scytalopus look very similar. It keeps its short tail cocked and moves mouse-like through dense understory. The species’ common name refers to the persistent fog (“neblina”) in its montane habitat.
Temperament
solitary and secretive
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with low, brief flights between cover
Social Behavior
Usually found alone or in pairs, keeping to shadowy understory close to the ground. Pairs maintain small territories and communicate with repeated songs and calls. Nests are typically placed low in banks or dense vegetation, often domed or ball-like structures with a side entrance.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a long, steady series of evenly spaced, sharp notes or trills that can continue for many seconds. Calls include short ticks and dry churrs, given from concealed perches within thick cover.
