The russet-bellied spinetail is a Vulnerable species of bird in the Furnariinae subfamily of the ovenbird family Furnariidae. It is endemic to Peru.
Region
Central Peruvian Andes
Typical Environment
Occurs on the west slope canyons and intermontane valleys in central Peru, favoring xeric montane scrub and thorny thickets. It keeps to dense, tangled vegetation along ravines, rocky slopes with cacti and shrubs, and brushy field edges. Riparian thickets with shrubs and low trees are also used, especially where adjacent to arid slopes. It generally avoids tall forest and very open ground, relying on cover for foraging and nesting.
Altitude Range
800–3000 m
Climate Zone
Arid
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A shy undergrowth specialist, the russet-bellied spinetail is restricted to arid Andean valleys of central Peru. It builds a bulky, domed stick nest with a side entrance tucked into dense shrubs. Habitat loss from agriculture, urban encroachment, and overgrazing has driven declines, earning it a Vulnerable status. Pairs often duet, and the bird is more often detected by its rattling song than seen.
Temperament
skulking and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats, usually low over cover
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly or in pairs, keeping close to dense shrubs where it forages and nests. Pairs maintain small territories and often duet to advertise occupancy. Nests are bulky domed structures of sticks with a side entrance, placed low in dense vegetation.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A dry, rattling series and chattering trills, often delivered as a duet by a pair. Calls are sharp ticks and chatters given from within cover, making the species more easily heard than seen.
