The white-crowned tapaculo is a species of bird in the family Rhinocryptidae. It is found in Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and Venezuela.
Region
Northern and Central Andes
Typical Environment
Inhabits humid montane forests and cloud forests from Venezuela through Colombia and Ecuador to Peru and Bolivia. Prefers dense understory, especially thickets of Chusquea bamboo, mossy ravines, and forest edges. Usually keeps close to the ground, moving mouse-like through tangled vegetation. Occurs in both primary and well-developed secondary forest and along shaded stream courses.
Altitude Range
700–3000 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A secretive understory specialist, the white-crowned tapaculo is more often heard than seen, its presence betrayed by persistent, rhythmic songs. The pale crown can be subtle and sometimes hidden by feathers, making voice critical for identification. Like many tapaculos, its taxonomy is complex, with regional variation across the Andes.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually encountered alone or in pairs, defending small territories in dense understory. Nests are domed or ball-shaped structures placed near the ground, often in cavities or banks, with both parents attending the young. Courtship and pair bonds are reinforced through frequent vocal duets and close-following behavior.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a persistent series of clear, evenly spaced notes or trills that can carry through thick vegetation. Calls include sharp chips and accelerating sequences. Males may sing for long periods from concealed perches.
Plumage
Dusky slate to blackish body with a contrasting whitish crown or forecrown, often subtle; flanks can show faint brownish barring. Tail is very short and typically held cocked. Overall appearance is compact and uniform, suited to dense cover.
Diet
Feeds primarily on small arthropods such as insects and spiders gleaned from leaf litter, moss, and low vegetation. Probes among roots, rotting logs, and bamboo tangles, often using rapid, furtive movements. Occasionally takes small berries or other soft plant matter, especially when insect prey is scarce.
Preferred Environment
Forages on or near the forest floor in dense thickets, bamboo patches, and along shaded stream banks. Uses cover to move undetected, rarely venturing into open spaces.
