Mouse-colored Tapaculo
NameMouse-colored Tapaculo
Common NameMouse-colored Tapaculo
Scientific NameScytalopus speluncae
FamilyRhinocryptidae
Wingspan (cm)13.5
Length (cm)10.5
Weight (g)12
Plumage DetailsEntirely dark gray to sooty black plumage, often appearing uniform. Some individuals may show faint brownish barring on the flanks, but generally, it's a very plain, mouse-like gray.
Vocalization / CallKnown for its distinctive, repetitive, and often mechanical-sounding calls, which can be a series of rapid 'churr' or 'tuc' notes, sometimes accelerating or slowing.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest, mountain
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeEndemic to southeastern Brazil, found in the Atlantic Forest biome from Espírito Santo south to Rio Grande do Sul.
Identifying Featuressmall size, dark gray plumage, short tail often held cocked, strong legs and feet, skulking behavior, distinctive repetitive call
Description
A small, dark, and secretive bird, the Mouse-colored Tapaculo is typically found foraging in the dense undergrowth of humid montane forests. It is more often heard than seen, moving quickly through vegetation with an upright posture and short, often cocked tail.
