The pale-bellied tapaculo, also known as the matorral tapaculo or rufous-rumped tapaculo, is a species of bird in the family Rhinocryptidae. It is found in Colombia and Venezuela.
Region
Northern Andes
Typical Environment
Occurs in the Eastern Andes of Colombia and adjacent western Venezuela (e.g., Táchira). It inhabits dense understory of humid montane forest, forest edges, and thickets, often where Chusquea bamboo is present. It also uses shrubby ravines and the ecotone between cloud forest and páramo. The species is highly localized to suitable cover and is rarely seen in open areas.
Altitude Range
1800–3600 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A skulking understory specialist of the northern Andes, the pale-bellied tapaculo is more often heard than seen. It keeps close to dense vegetation and frequently flashes a warm rufous rump as it darts between cover. Its song is a fast, even series of notes that can accelerate, a key cue for identification. Despite its secretive habits, it can be responsive to playback in suitable habitat.
Temperament
skulking and secretive
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Typically solitary or in pairs and strongly territorial. Nests are usually globular masses of moss or fibers placed low in banks or dense vegetation with a side entrance. Both sexes remain close to cover, moving mouse-like through tangles. Courtship and territory defense rely heavily on vocalizations.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A rapid, evenly spaced series of sharp notes that may accelerate or crescendo slightly. Calls include dry chips and scolds given from within dense cover.
