The Perijá tapaculo is a species of passerine bird in the family Rhinocryptidae (tapaculos). Endemic to the Serranía del Perijá mountain range on the Colombia–Venezuela border, the Perijá tapaculo is found at altitudes of 1,600–3,225 metres. Its body is 10 to 12 centimetres long and its tail is about 4 cm (1.6 in) long. Specimens have long been stored in museums, but the species was described only in 2015 based on sixteen specimens found between July 2008 and February 2009. It is considered vulnerable to extinction.
Region
Northern Andes
Typical Environment
Confined to the Serranía del Perijá along the Colombia–Venezuela border, occupying humid montane cloud forest, elfin forest, and dense secondary growth. It favors thick understory with Chusquea bamboo, ferns, and vine tangles, often near forest edges and along ravines. The species keeps close to the ground, using leaf litter and root mats for cover. It occurs in fragmented patches where suitable understory persists, including regenerating forest.
Altitude Range
1600–3225 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A shy, ground-hugging tapaculo restricted to the Serranía del Perijá on the Colombia–Venezuela border, it was only formally described in 2015 despite museum specimens existing for decades. It inhabits dense montane forest understory, especially bamboo and mossy thickets, where it is far more often heard than seen. Habitat loss from agriculture, ranching, and logging across its narrow range places it at risk.
A juvenile specimen of the Perijá tapaculo
The Serranía del Perijá mountain range near the El Cinco vereda in Colombia, where the type specimen was collected
Temperament
secretive and skulking
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats, low and fluttering between cover
Social Behavior
Typically found singly or in pairs, sometimes with dependent young. Pairs maintain small territories and communicate with duets. Nests are usually concealed, domed structures placed in cavities, earthen banks, or dense vegetation; both sexes likely participate in care.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a steady series of high, thin notes or trills that may accelerate slightly and carry well through dense understory. Calls include sharp ticks and soft, metallic notes used for contact and alarm. Vocalizations are the primary means of detection in the field.
Plumage
Mostly slate-gray to dark gray with warm brown, subtly barred flanks and rump; tail short and faintly barred. Underparts fairly uniform gray; upperparts darker with minimal contrast. Feathers appear soft and dense, aiding a rounded, compact silhouette.
Diet
Primarily small invertebrates such as insects, spiders, and other arthropods gleaned from leaf litter, moss, and low vegetation. It probes among roots, fallen branches, and bamboo stems. Occasional small seeds or berries may be taken opportunistically, but animal prey dominates.
Preferred Environment
Feeds on or near the ground within dense understory, especially bamboo thickets and mossy forest floors. Often forages along shaded trails, stream edges, and forest borders where leaf litter accumulates.
