The Xingu scythebill is a species of bird in the subfamily Dendrocolaptinae of the ovenbird family Furnariidae. It is endemic to Brazil.
Region
Southeastern Amazon Basin
Typical Environment
Occurs in terra firme and seasonally flooded forests within the Xingu interfluve of Brazil, often in mature, closed-canopy habitats with abundant vines and dead wood. It forages from lower to mid-levels up to the subcanopy, climbing trunks and large branches like other woodcreepers. The species may use forest edges and selectively logged areas if substantial canopy structure remains, but it primarily favors relatively undisturbed interior forest. It often joins mixed-species flocks while foraging.
Altitude Range
50–600 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A specialized woodcreeper, the Xingu scythebill uses its long, scythe-shaped bill to probe bark crevices, vine tangles, and dead leaf clusters for hidden arthropods. It is tied to intact lowland Amazonian forest and is sensitive to fragmentation and heavy logging. The species was recently recognized as distinct from the Curve-billed Scythebill complex by several taxonomic authorities.
Temperament
secretive and methodical
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats between trees; mostly creeps and climbs rather than undertaking long flights
Social Behavior
Usually solitary or in pairs, commonly joining mixed-species foraging flocks with other woodcreepers and antbirds. Nests are presumed to be in natural cavities or similar sheltered sites, with both adults likely participating in care. Territorial within suitable forest patches.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Gives a series of clear, whistled notes, often slightly descending or accelerating, carrying well through the forest. Calls include thin, high whistles and occasional sharp notes used in contact within mixed flocks.
Plumage
Warm rufous-brown woodcreeper with fine to bold buffy streaking on the head, neck, and breast, and plainer rufescent wings and tail.
Diet
Feeds primarily on arthropods such as beetles, spiders, cockroaches, and larvae extracted from bark crevices, moss, epiphytes, and dead leaf clusters. Probes and pries with its long bill, often inspecting vine tangles and suspended dead foliage. Occasionally takes small vertebrates or other invertebrates when encountered.
Preferred Environment
Forages on trunks, large branches, and vine-laden subcanopy of mature terra firme forest. Often follows mixed-species flocks, moving steadily through vertical substrates and dense tangles.
