The white-throated cacholote is a species of bird in the Furnariinae subfamily of the ovenbird family Furnariidae. It is endemic to Argentina.
Region
Central-western Argentina
Typical Environment
Found in arid and semi-arid shrublands, especially the Monte Desert and adjacent dry woodlands with Prosopis (mesquite), algarrobo, and tall cacti. It occupies edges of open scrub, ranchlands, and sparsely wooded river margins, and adapts well to degraded habitats near settlements. Nests are typically placed in thorny shrubs or columnar cacti where predators are deterred by spines. The species is largely sedentary within a well-defended territory.
Altitude Range
200–2000 m
Climate Zone
Arid
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A large furnariid, the white-throated cacholote is famous for its massive stick nests, which pairs construct in thorny trees or cacti and use year-round. Mated pairs perform loud, synchronized duets to defend territories. They often add to or refurbish multiple nests within their territory.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually seen in pairs that maintain strong year-round territories. Pairs build large, bulky stick nests—often more than one within a territory—and use them for breeding and roosting. Breeding occurs in the austral spring and summer, with both sexes participating in nest building and defense.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Loud, harsh chatter and rattling phrases delivered in energetic duets, with partners alternating and overlapping. Calls carry far across open scrub, often accompanied by animated posturing. Alarm notes are sharp and scolding.
