The ochre-browed thistletail is a species of bird in the Furnariinae subfamily of the ovenbird family Furnariidae. It is endemic to western Venezuela.
Region
Venezuelan Andes
Typical Environment
Occurs in the western Venezuelan Andes, mainly along the Cordillera de Mérida, in subalpine shrublands, edges of elfin forest, and open páramo with scattered shrubs. It favors dense tangles of Chusquea bamboo, Gynoxys and other montane shrubs, and areas with frailejones (Espeletia). Birds keep close to cover, working along slopes, ravines, and roadsides with shrubby margins. It is typically local but can be fairly common where suitable habitat remains.
Altitude Range
2400–4200 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This high-Andean furnariid is specialized for life in páramo and subpáramo scrub, where it creeps through dense vegetation with a constantly flicking, ragged tail. The name refers to its warm ochre eyebrow, a key field mark. It forages low and is often detected by its sharp calls and accelerating, tinkling song rather than by sight. Like many thistletails, it frequents Espeletia (frailejón) stands and Chusquea bamboo.
Temperament
shy and skulking
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats over low arcs between shrubs
Social Behavior
Usually found singly or in pairs, maintaining territories year-round. It moves methodically through dense vegetation, often keeping within a meter or two of the ground. Nesting is presumed to be a domed or well-concealed grass structure placed low in shrubs or tussocks, with both adults attending the young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A high, tinkling series that accelerates and rises slightly, often delivered from within cover. Calls include sharp chips and thin seep notes, given frequently while foraging.
