The orange-breasted thornbird is a species of bird in the Furnariinae subfamily of the ovenbird family Furnariidae. It is found in Brazil, Uruguay, and possibly Argentina.
Region
Southern Brazil, Uruguay, and adjacent northeastern Argentina
Typical Environment
This species is concentrated in lowland wetlands, especially around coastal lagoons, marshes, and riparian thickets. It is closely associated with dense, shrubby vegetation and reedbeds along the margins of water bodies. In Brazil it is regular around the Patos and Mirim lagoons, extending into similar habitats in Uruguay and just across the border into Argentina. It favors dense, thorny shrubs and cattail stands where it can forage and conceal its nest. Human-modified wetlands with thick shrub cover can also be used if structure is retained.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 600 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A member of the ovenbird family (Furnariidae), the orange-breasted thornbird is noted for its bulky stick nests, often placed in dense shrubs or reeds near water. Pairs typically duet loudly, especially at dawn, to advertise territory. It favors marshy edges of lagoons and slow rivers in southern Brazil and Uruguay, with a toehold in adjacent northeastern Argentina.
Adult
Temperament
secretive and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats, low and fluttering over vegetation
Social Behavior
Usually found in pairs that maintain year-round territories. Both sexes collaborate to build large, bulky stick nests with a side entrance, often placed in thorny shrubs or reeds near water. Nesting is typically in the warmer months, with the pair defending the immediate nest area vigorously.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are loud, rattling chatters and nasal notes delivered in rapid sequences. Pairs often duet antiphonally, creating a fast, excited series that carries across marshes.
