The white-whiskered spinetail is a species of bird in the Furnariinae subfamily of the ovenbird family Furnariidae. It is found in Colombia and Venezuela.
Region
Caribbean coast of northern South America
Typical Environment
Occurs along the Caribbean lowlands of northern Colombia and northwestern Venezuela, especially in xeric and semi-xeric zones. It favors thorn scrub, dry deciduous woodland edges, cacti-dominated brush, and second growth with scattered shrubs. It also uses fencerows, overgrown pastures, and road margins where dense tangles persist. The species keeps close to cover and rarely ventures into closed forest.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 800 m
Climate Zone
Arid
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This spinetail is a furnariid specialized for life in dry scrub, often keeping its tail cocked as it flicks through thorny vegetation. Pairs maintain year-round territories and build bulky twig nests with side entrances. Its sharp, chattering song carries surprisingly far in the quiet of arid habitats.
Illustration by Joseph Smit, 1874
Temperament
skulking and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats, low over scrub
Social Behavior
Usually found singly or in pairs that defend small territories year-round. Pairs communicate frequently and may duet. They build bulky twig nests with side entrances in dense shrubs or low trees and typically raise small clutches.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a sharp, dry chatter or series of ticking notes accelerating into a rattle. Calls include scolds and metallic chips, given frequently while foraging in cover.
