The tepui spinetail is a species of bird in the Furnariinae subfamily of the ovenbird family Furnariidae. It is found in Brazil, Guyana, and Venezuela.
Region
Guiana Highlands (Tepui region)
Typical Environment
Occurs on isolated tepui summits and upper slopes across southeastern Venezuela, western Guyana, and adjacent northern Brazil. It inhabits elfin forest edges, dense tepui shrublands, and mossy thickets with abundant bromeliads and epiphytes. Birds forage from near ground level up to the midstory, frequently along forest margins and stunted woodland. The rugged, fragmented landscape naturally limits its range to high-elevation plateaus and ridges.
Altitude Range
1200–2400 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The tepui spinetail is confined to the remote table-top mountains (tepuis) of the Guiana Highlands, where it forages nimbly through dense montane scrub. It often joins mixed-species flocks, helping it locate prey and avoid predators. Its specialized habitat makes it an indicator of the health of tepui shrublands and elfin forests.
Temperament
active and somewhat skulking
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with quick dashes between cover
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly or in pairs, maintaining territories year-round. Commonly associates with mixed-species flocks of highland passerines while foraging. Nests are typically domed or globular structures of sticks and fibers placed in shrubs, tangles, or among bromeliads.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A rapid, buzzy series of high-pitched notes that may accelerate slightly, interspersed with sharp chips. Calls include thin tsee and dry trills given while moving through dense vegetation.
