The streak-capped spinetail is a species of bird in the Furnariinae subfamily of the ovenbird family Furnariidae. It is found in Colombia and Venezuela.
Region
Central Andes
Typical Environment
Occurs along Andean slopes and intermontane valleys, primarily in Peru and Bolivia. It favors shrubby montane edges, secondary growth, and open patches within humid to semi-humid montane forest. The species often uses bamboo thickets, vine tangles, and hedgerows near human-modified habitats. It is generally local but can be fairly common where suitable dense cover exists.
Altitude Range
1800–3400 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The streak-capped spinetail is an active furnariid that creeps through dense Andean scrub and forest edges, often joining mixed-species flocks. Its finely streaked crown is a key field mark that separates it from similar brown spinetails. It typically keeps low to mid-levels in vegetation, where it gleans insects from leaves and twigs.
Temperament
active and somewhat skulking
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats through dense cover
Social Behavior
Typically seen singly or in pairs, maintaining small territories within dense vegetation. Frequently accompanies mixed-species flocks along forest edges and secondary growth. Nests are usually bulky, ball-like structures of twigs and fibers with a side entrance, placed low to mid-level in shrubs or tangles.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A thin, high-pitched series of accelerating notes and trills, often delivered from within cover. Calls include sharp ticks and soft chatter that can be hard to localize in dense foliage.
