Zimmer's tapaculo is a species of passerine bird in the family Rhinocryptidae. It is found in Bolivia and Argentina.
Region
Andes Mountains
Typical Environment
Occurs in the southern Bolivian and northwestern Argentine Andes, inhabiting dense montane scrub, brushy ravines, and edges of cloud forest. It favors steep slopes with thick understory, tussock grasses, and scattered shrubs or Polylepis/alder edges. The species keeps close to the ground, using rock crevices, root tangles, and dense vegetation for cover. It is typically local but can be fairly common where suitable habitat persists.
Altitude Range
2200–3600 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Zimmer's tapaculo is a small, ground-dwelling passerine of the Andean foothills and mountains of Bolivia and northwestern Argentina. It is notoriously secretive, more often heard than seen, and runs mouse-like through dense understory. Its song is a steady series of repeated notes or trills that can carry far across steep ravines. The species was named in honor of American ornithologist John T. Zimmer.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats, low and reluctant flier
Social Behavior
Usually encountered singly or in pairs, maintaining small territories year-round. Nests are placed low, often in burrows, cavities, or dense vegetation; both adults likely participate in care of young. Pairs communicate frequently with simple, repetitive vocalizations and often duet near territory boundaries.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a long series of evenly spaced, sharp notes or a steady trill that may accelerate slightly, lasting many seconds. Calls include dry ticks and soft chatters given from concealed perches within dense cover.
