The Tacarcuna tapaculo is a species of bird in the family Rhinocryptidae. It is found in Panama and Colombia.
Region
Darién Mountains (Panama–Colombia)
Typical Environment
Occurs in humid montane and cloud forests of the Serranía del Darién and adjacent Colombian ranges. It favors dense understory with mossy tangles, Chusquea bamboo, and shaded ravines. Birds keep to interior forest and edges with heavy cover, often near streams or steep, damp slopes. The species is patchy but can be locally common where suitable habitat remains.
Altitude Range
900–1800 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The Tacarcuna tapaculo is a secretive understory bird of the Serranía del Darién on the Panama–Colombia border. Like other tapaculos, it is far more often heard than seen, and its identification relies heavily on voice. It creeps through dense mossy thickets and bamboo, foraging close to the ground. Its restricted range makes intact mountain forests in the region especially important for its long‑term survival.
Temperament
secretive and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats, low and direct through cover
Social Behavior
Usually found singly or in pairs defending small territories within dense understory. Nests are placed very close to the ground, typically domed structures of moss and rootlets tucked into banks or dense vegetation. Pairs maintain contact with soft calls while foraging and may duet.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a series of high, clear notes delivered at a steady pace, sometimes accelerating into a rapid trill. Calls are sharp, metallic ticks and thin squeaks given from concealed perches within thickets.
Plumage
Compact, round-bodied tapaculo with mostly slaty gray plumage and brownish, finely barred flanks and rump; upperparts can show a dusky brown wash. The tail is short and often cocked, and the feathers appear soft and matte, aiding camouflage in shadowy understory. Juveniles are browner with heavier barring.
Diet
Primarily small arthropods, including ants, beetles, spiders, and larvae. It gleans from leaf litter, probes mossy logs, and picks prey from low vegetation. Foraging is methodical and close to the ground, using short hops and pauses.
Preferred Environment
Dense, shaded understory of humid montane forest, especially mossy ravines and bamboo thickets. Often forages along trails, stream banks, and fallen trunks where cover is abundant.
