The ochre-cheeked spinetail is a species of bird in the Furnariinae subfamily of the ovenbird family Furnariidae. It is found in Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Paraguay, and Peru.
Region
South-central South America
Typical Environment
This species inhabits scrubby woodlands, forest edges, and dense second growth with vine tangles and bamboo, as well as gallery forests along rivers. It favors low to mid understory layers where cover is thick, often near watercourses and in semi-open mosaics of shrubs and trees. In parts of its range it uses degraded habitats and plantations with dense understory, which helps it persist despite fragmentation.
Altitude Range
0–1500 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The ochre-cheeked spinetail is a small ovenbird that creeps through dense scrub and forest edges, often keeping its rufous tail cocked. It is frequently detected by its rapid, chattering trills rather than seen, as it forages low in tangled vegetation. Pairs maintain year-round territories and may join mixed-species flocks while feeding.
Illustration by Joseph Smit, 1881
Temperament
secretive but active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats between dense cover
Social Behavior
Usually found singly or in pairs that maintain territories throughout the year. Often joins mixed-species flocks while foraging, moving methodically through vines and thickets. Nests are typically enclosed structures placed in dense vegetation, with both sexes participating in nest building and care.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A rapid, dry series of chattering notes that may accelerate into a rattling trill. Calls include sharp chips and scolds delivered from cover. Vocalizations carry well in dense understory and are key to detection.
Plumage
Overall warm brown upperparts with a distinctly rufous tail and wings; face shows a rich ochre cheek contrasting with a pale supercilium and slightly grayer crown. Underparts are grayish to buffy with subtle shading toward the flanks. Feathers can appear slightly shaggy on the head, and the tail is long and often held cocked.
Diet
Primarily small arthropods such as beetles, ants, spiders, and caterpillars gleaned from leaves, twigs, and dead leaf clusters. It also probes bark crevices and suspended leaf litter. Occasionally takes small berries or seeds, but animal prey dominates the diet.
Preferred Environment
Forages in the lower to mid understory of scrub, forest edges, gallery forest, and bamboo thickets. Frequently works through vine tangles and dense secondary growth, often near watercourses or in semi-open woodland.
