The Peruvian treehunter is a species of bird in the Furnariinae subfamily of the ovenbird family Furnariidae. It is found in Bolivia and Peru. It is also called the rufous-backed treehunter or buff-throated treehunter.
Region
Andes Mountains
Typical Environment
Occurs on the humid east slope of the central and southern Peruvian Andes south into western Bolivia. It inhabits mature montane and cloud forests, especially areas with abundant epiphytes and dense Chusquea bamboo thickets. Birds typically use the understory to midstory, foraging along moss-laden trunks, branches, and tangled vines. They tolerate forest edges and secondary growth if dense structure is present, but are most frequent in intact forest.
Altitude Range
1200–3100 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A skulking furnariid of humid Andean forests, the Peruvian treehunter is most often detected by its loud, rasping calls rather than seen. It specializes in probing mossy trunks, vine tangles, and dense bamboo for hidden arthropods using a heavy, slightly decurved bill. Pairs often maintain territories year-round and may nest in burrows tunneled into earthen banks. Habitat loss is a concern locally, but the species remains widespread within suitable forest.
Temperament
secretive and methodical
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually solitary or in pairs, moving deliberately through dense vegetation. Frequently associates loosely with mixed-species flocks while foraging. Nests are typically excavated burrows in earthen banks or steep slopes, lined with plant fibers. Pairs maintain territories and communicate with loud calls.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are a loud, rough series of accelerating notes and harsh churrs delivered from concealed perches. Calls carry well through dense forest and are often the first indication of its presence.
