The rusty-crowned tit-spinetail is a species of bird in the Furnariinae subfamily of the ovenbird family Furnariidae. It is endemic to Peru.
Region
Andes Mountains
Typical Environment
Endemic to the central Peruvian Andes, where it inhabits montane scrub, hedgerows, rocky slopes, and patches of Polylepis woodland. It favors ecotones and edges of elfin forest, working through dense shrubbery and low trees. The species also uses steep canyon faces with scattered bushes and boulder fields. Human-modified landscapes with remnant shrubs can be used if structure is retained.
Altitude Range
3000–4300 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A small, hyperactive furnariid, the rusty-crowned tit-spinetail darts through high Andean scrub, often joining mixed-species flocks of small insectivores. Its long, spiny-tipped tail helps it balance as it clambers through shrubs and rocky slopes. It builds a bulky twig nest in dense bushes or rocky crevices, with both sexes participating. Conservation of high-elevation shrublands and Polylepis patches benefits this species.
Temperament
active and alert
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with quick, darting flights between shrubs
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly or in pairs, often joining mixed-species foraging flocks of small Andean insectivores. Pairs maintain territories during the breeding season and communicate with sharp contact notes. They construct bulky twig nests in dense shrubs or rock crevices; both sexes participate in nest building and care.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A fast, high-pitched series of thin trills and chips, often delivered from within cover. Calls include sharp tick and tsit notes used to keep contact while moving through shrubs.
Plumage
Compact, with a long, graduated, spiny-tipped tail; upperparts brownish to gray-brown with subtle streaking; underparts pale gray to buffy with light wash. The crown is distinctly rusty, contrasting with a pale supercilium and darker eye-line. Wings show warm rufous tones, especially in the coverts and edges. Tail feathers are narrow and pointed, giving a spiky appearance.
Diet
Primarily small arthropods, including insects, larvae, and spiders gleaned from leaves, twigs, and bark. It probes crevices and hangs acrobatically to reach hidden prey. Occasional pecks are directed at seed heads or small fruits but animal prey dominates.
Preferred Environment
Forages in dense montane scrub, Polylepis patches, hedgerows, and rocky slopes with scattered bushes. Often works mid-level to outer foliage, but will drop to low shrubs and ground-level rocks when prey is active.
