The rusty-fronted canastero is a species of bird in the Furnariinae subfamily of the ovenbird family Furnariidae. It is endemic to Peru.
Region
Peruvian Andes
Typical Environment
Occupies dry to semi-arid montane scrub and shrub-steppe on rocky slopes and ravines. Uses bunchgrass mosaics with scattered shrubs, hedgerows, and field margins in rural landscapes. Often forages along edges of Polylepis and other high-Andean woodlands, but prefers dense low shrubs. Tolerant of some habitat modification provided shrubby cover remains.
Altitude Range
2700–4100 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A furnariid of high Andean scrub, the rusty-fronted canastero is more often heard than seen as it scurries through dense shrubs with its tail slightly cocked. Its name refers to the warm rufous tones on its forehead and face. Like many canasteros, it builds bulky, domed stick nests with a side entrance hidden in shrubs.
Temperament
skulking but active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats in low, bouncing flights
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly or in pairs, sometimes with dependent juveniles after breeding. Pairs maintain small territories within dense scrub and communicate with trills and chatters. Nests are bulky dome-like structures of sticks placed in shrubs or grass tussocks with a lateral entrance.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A dry, accelerating rattle or trill followed by a series of sharp chits, often delivered from within cover. Calls include scolding ticks and squeaky notes used in pair contact.
