Jalca Tapaculo
NameJalca Tapaculo
Common NameJalca Tapaculo
Scientific NameScytalopus frankeae
FamilyRhinocryptidae
Wingspan (cm)16
Length (cm)11
Weight (g)18
Plumage DetailsGenerally dark grey plumage, often with a slightly paler belly and brownish flanks and rump. Some individuals may show faint barring on the flanks.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalization is a distinctive, repetitive series of 'churr' notes, which can accelerate and rise in pitch, or a rapid, mechanical-sounding series of 'chup' notes.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsmountain, grassland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeEndemic to the high Andes of southern Peru, specifically found in the regions of Ayacucho, Apurímac, and Cusco.
Identifying FeaturesSmall size, Dark grey plumage, Secretive, ground-dwelling habits, Distinctive repetitive call, Found in high-altitude puna and montane scrub
Description
The Jalca Tapaculo is a small, secretive passerine bird found in high-altitude Andean scrub and grasslands. It is typically observed foraging on or near the ground, often hidden within dense vegetation. Its presence is more often detected by its distinctive vocalizations than by sight.
