Ash-colored Tapaculo
NameAsh-colored Tapaculo
Common NameAsh-colored Tapaculo
Scientific NameMyornis senilis
FamilyRhinocryptidae
Wingspan (cm)16
Length (cm)13
Weight (g)21
Plumage DetailsOverall dark ash-gray plumage, often with a slightly browner wash on the flanks and vent. The tail is short and dark, and the legs are relatively long and strong.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalization is a distinctive, rapid, and repetitive series of notes, often described as a loud 'churr' or 'trill' that can carry well through its dense habitat.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest, mountain
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in the high-altitude Andes mountains, ranging from southern Colombia through Ecuador to northern Peru.
Identifying FeaturesSmall, dark gray plumage, Short, cocked tail, Strong legs for terrestrial movement, Skulking behavior in dense undergrowth, Loud, repetitive churring call
Description
The Ash-colored Tapaculo is a small, dark, and highly secretive bird found in the dense undergrowth of montane forests. It is typically observed foraging on or near the ground, often detected more by its distinctive vocalizations than by sight due to its skulking nature.
