The spectacled prickletail is a species of bird in the Furnariinae subfamily of the ovenbird family Furnariidae. It is found in Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru.
Region
Andes Mountains
Typical Environment
Occurs on the Andean slopes of Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru, mainly in humid montane forest and forest edges. It is especially associated with dense understory, vine tangles, and Chusquea bamboo. The species uses mid- to lower-level strata where cover is thick. It tolerates selectively logged and secondary growth if sufficient understory remains. Local presence can be patchy, tracking suitable thickets along ridges and ravines.
Altitude Range
800–2200 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The 'spectacled' name comes from its crisp pale eye-ring that looks like glasses. As with other prickletails, its tail feathers end in stiff, spiny tips that aid maneuvering through dense vegetation. It favors bamboo and vine tangles in humid Andean forests and often forages quietly in pairs. It may also join mixed-species flocks moving along forest edges.
Temperament
skulking and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually in pairs or small family groups moving through dense understory. Frequently accompanies mixed-species flocks along forest edges and bamboo thickets. Nests are thought to be bulky, enclosed structures placed low to mid-level in dense vegetation, with both parents attending young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Gives sharp tik notes and a quick, dry rattle or accelerating trill. Vocalizations are high-pitched and carry poorly, often delivered from within cover.
