The rock earthcreeper is a species of bird in the Furnariinae subfamily of the ovenbird family Furnariidae. It is found in Argentina and Bolivia, and as a vagrant in Chile.
Region
Central Andes
Typical Environment
Occurs primarily in arid, rocky habitats of northwestern Argentina and southwestern/central Bolivia, with occasional records in northern Chile. It favors boulder-strewn slopes, dry ravines, canyon walls, and sparsely vegetated puna and prepuna scrub. The species often forages along cliff bases, stone piles, and adobe or rock walls near settlements. Vegetation is typically low and open, providing scattered shrubs and ample exposed rock.
Altitude Range
2200–4500 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A hardy furnariid of the high Andes, the rock earthcreeper prowls rocky slopes and puna scrub, often probing into crevices for insects. Its warm rufous tail flashes when it flicks or fans it during short flights. Pairs defend territories year-round and commonly use natural rock holes or human-made walls for nesting. It is generally inconspicuous, relying on camouflage and low, fast dashes rather than long flights.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats, low and direct between rocks
Social Behavior
Usually encountered singly or in pairs that maintain year-round territories. Nests are placed in rock crevices, holes, or cavities in walls, lined with plant material. Likely monogamous with both adults involved in territory defense and parental care.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a brief series of clear, whistled notes that may accelerate slightly, delivered from a prominent rock or during short display flights. Calls are dry, sharp chips and rattling notes used for contact and alarm.
Plumage
Overall sandy- to gray-brown upperparts with a paler, slightly streaked face and throat; warm rufous tail contrasts with duller back. Underparts are pale buff to grayish with minimal streaking. Wings show rufous tones, especially evident in flight.
Diet
Feeds mainly on arthropods such as beetles, ants, spiders, and other small invertebrates. It probes into crevices, under stones, and among roots, often flipping debris with its slightly decurved bill. Opportunistically takes larvae and other soft-bodied prey, and may glean insects from walls and rock faces.
Preferred Environment
Forages on open rocky slopes, talus, and canyon bottoms with scattered shrubs. Frequently works along the edges of rock piles, stone corrals, and adobe walls near human habitation.
