The Rio Orinoco spinetail, or Orinoco spinetail, is a Near Threatened species of bird in the Furnariinae subfamily of the ovenbird family Furnariidae. It is found in Venezuela and possibly Colombia.
Region
Orinoco Basin
Typical Environment
Occurs along the middle Orinoco River, primarily in Venezuela and possibly adjacent Colombia, restricted to river-edge and island scrub. Favors dense, shrubby growth on recently formed islands, including cane and young secondary vegetation. Uses tangles, viney thickets, and early-successional riverine habitats created by seasonal flooding. The species’ distribution closely tracks dynamic sediment and vegetation patterns of the river.
Altitude Range
0–300 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This riverside specialist lives almost exclusively in dense scrub on vegetated islands and banks of the Orinoco River. It was formally described only in 2009, and its small, patchy range makes it vulnerable to changes in river dynamics. Damming, channelization, and sand extraction that alter island formation can reduce suitable habitat. It often reveals itself by its buzzy trills and the flicking of its long rufous tail.
Temperament
secretive and skulking
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with low dashes through dense scrub
Social Behavior
Typically encountered in pairs or small family groups within dense riverine thickets. It keeps low to mid-levels and often remains hidden while foraging. Nests are presumed to be bulky, domed stick structures with a side entrance, typical of spinetails, placed in dense vegetation.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Delivers a fast, buzzy trill that accelerates slightly and may end with sharper notes. Calls include dry chatters and ticking notes, often given from within cover.
