The striolated tit-spinetail is a species of bird in the Furnariinae subfamily of the ovenbird family Furnariidae. It is endemic to Brazil.
Region
Eastern and southeastern Brazil highlands
Typical Environment
Occurs in montane and rocky uplands, especially campos rupestres and shrubby slopes with scattered trees and bromeliads. It favors edges of montane forest, open scrub, and rocky outcrops where it can glean arthropods from foliage and crevices. The species is closely tied to highland habitats and is patchily distributed where suitable scrub persists. It is generally non-migratory and maintains territories or home ranges year-round.
Altitude Range
800–2200 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This small furnariid is a busy, acrobatic foliage-gleaner that frequents rocky, scrubby highlands in eastern Brazil. Its long, spiny-looking tail and finely streaked underparts give it a distinctive profile. Often joining mixed-species flocks, it helps control arthropods by probing leaves, twigs, and bromeliads. It is typically resident year-round within its restricted range.
Temperament
active and alert
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with quick, undulating dashes between shrubs
Social Behavior
Usually found in pairs or small family groups and frequently joins mixed-species flocks. It forages by gleaning and probing among leaves, twigs, bark, and bromeliads, often hanging acrobatically. Nests are typically bulky structures of twigs and fibers placed in shrubs, bromeliads, or rock crevices, lined with softer materials.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A thin, high-pitched series of tinkling notes and short trills, often delivered from exposed perches. Calls include sharp tsip and chit notes used to keep contact while foraging. Vocalizations are quick and persistent, matching its restless behavior.
Plumage
Brown to warm-brown upperparts with fine pale streaking, and buffy to whitish underparts marked with narrow dark streaks. Wings and long, graduated tail show rufous tones; tail feathers appear stiff and spiny-tipped. Face shows a contrasting pale supercilium and darker eye line.
Diet
Primarily small arthropods such as insects, spiders, and their larvae. It gleans from foliage, probes bark crevices, and inspects bromeliad rosettes for hidden prey. It occasionally hawks short distances to snatch flying insects. Plant material is minimal and incidental.
Preferred Environment
Forages in scrubby highlands, rocky slopes, and edges of montane forest where low shrubs and bromeliads are abundant. Often uses shrub canopies and mid-story strata, moving methodically through vegetation. Will also search rocky faces and crevices adjacent to shrublands.
