The tawny tit-spinetail is a species of bird in the Furnariinae subfamily of the ovenbird family Furnariidae. It is found in Argentina, Bolivia, and Peru.
Region
Andes Mountains
Typical Environment
Occurs in patchy Polylepis woodlands, high-elevation scrub, and elfin forest along the central Andes of Peru, Bolivia, and northwestern Argentina. It favors fragmented woodland edges, ravines, and rocky slopes with scattered Polylepis and associated shrubs. Birds often use the midstory and canopy, moving methodically along limbs and into bark fissures. It tolerates some habitat disturbance but declines where old-growth Polylepis is removed or heavily grazed.
Altitude Range
3000–4800 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This Polylepis specialist spends much of its time gleaning insects among gnarled high-Andean trees near the treeline. Its long, spiky tail helps with balance as it clambers along branches and hangs to probe bark crevices. Conservation of fragmented Polylepis woodlands in Peru, Bolivia, and Argentina is crucial for its persistence.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with brief undulating hops between trees
Social Behavior
Often travels in pairs or small family groups and commonly joins mixed-species flocks in Polylepis stands. Nests are typically placed in tree cavities or dense clumps of twigs, lined with soft plant material. Pairs maintain small territories during breeding but may range more widely outside the season.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Delivers a fast, dry series of rattling notes and trills, often accelerating slightly. Calls include sharp chips and scolding chatters exchanged between foraging birds.
