Stiles's tapaculo is a member of the tapaculos, a group of Neotropical birds. It was described as new to science in 2005.
Region
Colombian Andes
Typical Environment
Occupies humid montane forest and edge habitats with very dense understory, including secondary growth, bamboo (Chusquea) thickets, and streamside thickets. It stays close to the ground, using tangles, mossy logs, and root masses for cover. Often found on steep ravines and along narrow forest trails where leaf litter accumulates. Tolerates some habitat disturbance if understory structure remains intact.
Altitude Range
1400–2200 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Stiles's tapaculo is a shy, ground-loving bird of dense Andean undergrowth, described as new to science in 2005 and named for ornithologist Gary Stiles. Like many tapaculos, it is best identified by its distinctive song rather than by sight. It keeps to thick cover, darting between root tangles and bamboo clumps. Vocalizations are key for surveys and have been crucial in defining its range.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats; rarely flies far, usually dashes low between cover
Social Behavior
Typically seen alone or in pairs during the breeding season. Nests are placed low, often domed structures hidden in banks or dense vegetation. Pairs maintain small territories and communicate frequently by song and antiphonal duets. Juveniles remain concealed and follow parents quietly through understory.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A long series of sharp, evenly spaced notes that accelerate and often build into a steady trill. The rhythm and pace are distinctive and are the most reliable way to separate it from similar tapaculos nearby.
Plumage
Mostly uniform dark slaty-gray above and below with contrasting brownish to rufous, finely barred flanks and rump; soft, dense plumage suited for moving through brush.
Diet
Feeds primarily on small arthropods such as insects and spiders gleaned from leaf litter, mossy logs, and the bases of shrubs. Probes and picks methodically while moving in short bursts. Occasionally takes small larvae and other invertebrates disturbed by its scratching. Rarely, it may ingest tiny fruits or seeds incidentally.
Preferred Environment
Forages on or just above the ground within dense understory, especially in bamboo and thickets. Frequently works along shaded ravines, streambanks, and forest edges where cover is continuous.
