The Urubamba antpitta is a bird in the family Grallariidae. The species was first described as a subspecies by Frank Chapman in 1923. It is endemic to Peru. It is a member of the rufous antpitta species complex and was elevated from subspecies to species in 2020 on the basis of differences in plumage and vocalization. The same study also described a new subspecies of Urubamba antpitta.
Region
Peruvian Andes
Typical Environment
Occurs in humid montane forests along the east slope of the central Peruvian Andes, especially around the Cordillera de Urubamba and nearby ranges. It favors dense, mossy understory and thickets, often with Chusquea bamboo. Birds keep close to the ground, foraging along trails, ravines, and forest edges within intact cloud forest. It is typically local but can be fairly common where suitable habitat persists. Habitat fragmentation may limit its patchy distribution.
Altitude Range
2600–3600 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A shy forest-floor specialist of Andean cloud forests, the Urubamba antpitta often reveals itself more by voice than by sight. Long treated as part of the rufous antpitta complex, it was elevated to species in 2020 based on distinct plumage and vocal traits. It is endemic to Peru, with a core range around the Cordillera de Urubamba. The same research also recognized a new subspecies within this taxon.
Temperament
shy and skulking
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats low to the ground
Social Behavior
Mostly solitary or in pairs, maintaining territories in dense understory. Nests are typically open cups placed low in vegetation or on banks. Both parents likely share incubation and chick-rearing duties. Territorial duets and countersinging are common during the breeding season.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Gives a clear, mournful series of whistled notes, often accelerating or slightly rising in pitch. Calls carry far through cloud forest and are a primary means of detection. Soft contact notes are used at close range within territories.
