The plain thornbird is a species of bird in the Furnariinae subfamily of the ovenbird family Furnariidae. It is found in Colombia and Venezuela.
Region
Llanos of Colombia and Venezuela
Typical Environment
Occurs in open savanna landscapes with scattered shrubs and trees, especially in thorny thickets and along gallery woodlands. It favors edges, pastures, riparian scrub, and second-growth with abundant thorny vegetation for nesting material. The species is largely tied to lowland grassland–savanna mosaics and human-modified edges. It can be locally common where dense shrub cover is available and near watercourses.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1000 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Plain thornbirds are active ovenbirds best known for building large, thorny stick nests with multiple chambers that may be reused year-round. They often occur in pairs that keep close contact with loud duets and chatter. Their rather uniform plumage can make them tricky to separate from similar thornbirds, but their rufous wings and tail and habitat in the Llanos are helpful clues.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually seen in pairs or small family groups maintaining territories year-round. They construct bulky, thorny stick nests with multiple chambers used for breeding and roosting. Both sexes participate in nest building and care for young, and pairs keep in close contact while foraging.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations include energetic, chattering duets and fast rattling sequences. Calls are harsh and scolding, carrying well across open savanna and scrub.
