The rufous-bellied seedsnipe is a bird in suborder Scolopaci of order Charadriiformes, the shorebirds. It is found in Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, Ecuador, and Peru.
Region
Andes Mountains
Typical Environment
Found from southern Ecuador through Peru and Bolivia into northern Chile and northwestern Argentina, typically above treeline. It inhabits open puna and páramo grasslands, stony slopes, cushion bogs, and alpine tundra near the snowline. Birds often select areas with sparse vegetation, scree, and rock outcrops that provide excellent camouflage. In winter or during severe weather they may descend to slightly lower elevations with more accessible forage.
Altitude Range
3000–5200 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Despite belonging to the shorebird order, the rufous-bellied seedsnipe is largely vegetarian and lives high in the Andes, where it endures cold, windy conditions. Its cryptic, mottled plumage makes it almost invisible among scree and puna grasslands. Pairs and small groups often make short altitudinal movements following snowmelt and fresh plant growth.
Temperament
wary and cryptic
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with low, direct flights
Social Behavior
Typically found singly, in pairs, or small family groups; larger loose flocks may form outside the breeding season. Nests are simple ground scrapes among stones or grass tussocks, with both adults tending the young. Courtship includes subtle displays and soft calls, relying heavily on camouflage for predator avoidance.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
Vocalizations are soft, whistled calls and brief trills, often given in flight or when alarmed. Calls carry in the thin mountain air but are generally subdued compared to many other shorebirds.
