The white-chinned thistletail, or colicardo barbiblanco in Ecuador, is a species of bird in the Furnariinae subfamily of the ovenbird family Furnariidae. It is found in Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and Venezuela.
Region
Northern and Central Andes
Typical Environment
Occurs along high-elevation slopes and ridgelines in the Andes of Venezuela, Colombia, Ecuador, and northern Peru. It favors páramo grasslands, elfin forest edges, and dense Chusquea bamboo or bunchgrasses, often near shrubby ravines. Birds keep close to the ground or low vegetation, moving methodically through tussocks and bamboo culms. It also uses stunted Polylepis woodland edges where undergrowth is thick. Local abundance is highest in intact, moist páramo with extensive grass-bamboo structure.
Altitude Range
2800–4300 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The white-chinned thistletail is a high-Andean furnariid that creeps through dense páramo grasses and bamboo, often keeping its long, graduated tail cocked. Its small white chin patch contrasts with otherwise sooty-brown plumage and rufous wings and tail. It is typically seen singly or in pairs and is more often heard than seen due to its skulking habits. Several subspecies vary subtly across Colombia, Venezuela, Ecuador, and Peru.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with low, bounding dashes
Social Behavior
Usually seen alone or in pairs maintaining small territories within dense grass-bamboo. Nests are placed low in dense vegetation, typically as domed or ball-shaped structures with side entrances. Pairs likely remain together year-round in suitable territories.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a fast, dry, insect-like trill or rattle that may accelerate and slightly rise or fall in pitch. Calls include sharp ticks and thin chips given from within cover.
