Long-tailed Tapaculo
NameLong-tailed Tapaculo
Common NameLong-tailed Tapaculo
Scientific NamePteroptochos megapodius
FamilyRhinocryptidae
Wingspan (cm)27.5
Length (cm)24
Weight (g)72.5
Plumage DetailsPredominantly dark brown to sooty black plumage, with the flanks and undertail coverts often exhibiting rufous barring or mottling. A small, often inconspicuous white spot is typically present behind the eye, visible in the image.
Vocalization / CallKnown for its loud, distinctive, and often repetitive vocalizations, which are a rapid series of 'churr' or 'chuk' notes. These calls often accelerate and descend in pitch, sometimes likened to a machine gun or a bouncing ball.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest, mountain
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeEndemic to central and southern Chile, extending into adjacent parts of Argentina. It is found in the Andean foothills and coastal mountain ranges.
Identifying FeaturesRelatively large size for a tapaculo, Long, often cocked tail, Dark brown to sooty black plumage with rufous barring on flanks, Small white spot behind the eye, Strong legs and feet for ground foraging, Loud, machine-gun-like call
Description
The Long-tailed Tapaculo is a medium-sized, ground-dwelling bird characterized by its stocky build and relatively long, often cocked tail. It inhabits dense undergrowth in temperate forests and scrub, where it is more often heard than seen. This species forages primarily for insects and other invertebrates on the forest floor.
