The striated softtail is a Vulnerable species of bird in the Furnariinae subfamily of the ovenbird family Furnariidae. It is endemic to eastern Brazil.
Region
Atlantic Forest, eastern Brazil
Typical Environment
Occurs patchily from southern Bahia south into Espírito Santo and adjacent parts of eastern Minas Gerais, mainly in humid lowland and foothill zones. It favors forest edges, secondary growth, riverine thickets, and vine tangles, often along streams and in regenerating scrub. The species tolerates some disturbance if dense understory is present but is absent from open, treeless areas. Its range has become fragmented due to deforestation and land conversion.
Altitude Range
0–1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This small furnariid is confined to remnants and edges of Brazil’s Atlantic Forest, where it keeps to dense thickets and vine tangles. Its long, soft, graduated tail and finely streaked underparts help distinguish it from similar spinetails. It often forages low to mid-levels, sometimes joining mixed-species flocks. Ongoing habitat loss and fragmentation are the main threats to the species.
Temperament
secretive and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with low, darting flights through dense cover
Social Behavior
Usually seen in pairs or small family groups, maintaining territories within dense understory. Frequently joins mixed-species flocks while foraging. Nesting is typical of furnariids, with bulky twig structures placed in dense vegetation.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Voice is a thin, high-pitched series of quick notes or trills delivered from cover. Calls include sharp chips and squeaky notes used to keep contact with a mate.
