The rock tapaculo or Espinhaço tapaculo is a species of bird in the family Rhinocryptidae. It is endemic to altitudes of 900–2,100 metres (3,000–6,900 ft) in the central and southern Espinhaço Mountains, and the Mantiqueira Mountains in Minas Gerais, Brazil, though it may also occur in adjacent parts of Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo. It is found in shrubby and grassy habitats in rocky regions, and in elfin and cloud forest. It closely resembles the Diamantina tapaculo and Planalto tapaculo in appearance and voice.
Region
Southeast Brazil (Espinhaço and Mantiqueira Mountains)
Typical Environment
Occurs in the central and southern Espinhaço Mountains and in the Mantiqueira Mountains of Minas Gerais, with possible occurrence in adjacent Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo. It favors rocky ridges, granite outcrops, and steep slopes with shrubby and grassy vegetation. Birds use dense, mossy understory of elfin and cloud forest edges and ravines. They keep close to the ground, working among rocks, roots, and leaf litter where cover is continuous. Habitat quality is tied to intact campos rupestres mosaics and moisture in montane forests.
Altitude Range
900–2100 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Also known as the Espinhaço tapaculo, this recently described tapaculo is part of the notoriously cryptic Rhinocryptidae, where species are often told apart more by voice than by plumage. It inhabits rocky montane grasslands and elfin/cloud forests known as campos rupestres in southeastern Brazil. Its secretive nature means it is far more often heard than seen, delivering persistent songs from dense cover. Conservation depends on protecting high-elevation rocky outcrops and adjacent forest understory.
Temperament
skulking and secretive
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats, low and reluctant flier
Social Behavior
Typically found singly or in pairs, maintaining small territories year-round. Nests are placed low or on the ground in cavities or banks, often domed or ball-shaped with a side entrance. Both parents likely participate in care, as in other Scytalopus.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a persistent, even-paced series of sharp notes or trills delivered from concealed perches. Calls include dry ticks and chatters used in contact and alarm. Vocal differences from related tapaculos are key for identification.
Plumage
Mostly dark slate-gray with brownish to rufous, finely barred flanks and vent; upperparts plain and sooty; tail very short and often held cocked.
Diet
Primarily small arthropods, including insects such as beetles, ants, and larvae, as well as spiders. Forages by gleaning and probing among leaf litter, moss, and crevices between rocks. May occasionally take other tiny invertebrates encountered on the ground or low stems.
Preferred Environment
Feeds in dense understory, along rocky slopes, and at the edges of elfin and cloud forests. Often works the ground layer and lower vegetation in shaded, moist microhabitats near rocks and roots.
