The scribble-tailed canastero is a species of bird in the Furnariinae subfamily of the ovenbird family Furnariidae. It is found in Argentina, Bolivia, and Peru.
Region
Andes Mountains
Typical Environment
Occurs in the high Andes of southern Peru, western Bolivia, and northwest Argentina. It inhabits puna and humid montane grasslands, often near bogs (bofedales), seeps, and the edges of Polylepis scrub. The species favors dense bunchgrasses and low shrubs where it can remain concealed while foraging. It also uses ecotones between open grassland and elfin forest edges.
Altitude Range
3200–4700 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This high-Andes furnariid is named for its distinctively barred, 'scribbled' tail, which is often flicked as it forages in dense bunchgrasses. It stays low to the ground and is more often heard than seen, delivering dry trills and chatters. It typically occurs in pairs that defend small territories year-round.
Temperament
secretive and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with low, bounding flights between grass clumps
Social Behavior
Usually found in pairs or small family groups that remain in the same territory year-round. Nests are placed low in dense grass or shrubs and are dome- or basket-like structures typical of canasteros. Both members of a pair participate in territory defense and foraging.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a dry, accelerating series of trills and rattles, sometimes ending in buzzy notes. Calls include sharp chips and chatters delivered from low perches or from within grass tussocks.
