The rufous-tailed plantcutter, sometimes called the Chilean plantcutter, is a passerine bird of southern South America, now placed in the cotinga family. It is a medium-sized bird about 19 centimetres (7.5 in) long with a long black tail with a red base. Males have greyish-brown upper parts, a chestnut crown and breast, and dark facial markings. Females are similar but lack the chestnut crown and have streaked, buff underparts. There is a wing bar which is white in the male and buff in the female. This is a fairly common species with a wide range, and the International Union for Conservation of Nature has rated its conservation status as being of "least concern".
Region
Southern South America
Typical Environment
Occurs from central and southern Chile east into adjacent western Argentina, favoring open woodlands, scrub, forest edges, and semi-arid matorral. Common in hedgerows, gardens, orchards, and riparian thickets. It uses shrub layers and low trees for foraging and nesting and adapts well to mosaic agricultural landscapes. Local seasonal movements occur, with some birds shifting north or downslope in winter.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 2000 m
Climate Zone
Temperate
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A leaf-eating passerine, the rufous-tailed plantcutter uses a finely serrated bill to shear buds, leaves, and flower petals—an unusual diet among songbirds. Males show a rufous base to the otherwise dark tail and a chestnut crown, while females are streaked and lack the crown. It readily visits orchards and gardens, sometimes clipping new growth, and is generally tolerant of human-altered landscapes.
Temperament
alert and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with undulating flight
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly, in pairs, or small family groups. Builds a cup nest in dense shrubs or low trees, with both sexes involved in nesting care. Males often sing from exposed perches and may fan the tail during displays.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
Song is a series of buzzy, scratchy phrases delivered from prominent perches. Calls include sharp chips and chatter, carrying well across scrubby habitats.
