Plain-mantled Tit-Spinetail
NamePlain-mantled Tit-Spinetail
Common NamePlain-mantled Tit-Spinetail
Scientific NameLeptasthenura aegithaloides
FamilyFurnariidae
Wingspan (cm)16
Length (cm)15
Weight (g)10
Plumage DetailsUpperparts are dull brown, often with a rufous wash on the back. The crown is streaked dark brown and whitish, complemented by a prominent whitish supercilium and dark eyestripe. Underparts are whitish to pale buff, and the wings feature a distinct rufous panel. The long, graduated tail is dark brown with whitish outer webs on the outermost feathers, giving it a spiny appearance.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include high-pitched, thin, and rapid trills or a series of 'tsee-tsee-tsee' notes.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsdesert, mountain, forest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in western and southern South America, ranging from southern Peru and Bolivia south through Chile and Argentina.
Identifying FeaturesLong, spiny, graduated tail, Streaked crown, Prominent whitish supercilium, Rufous wing panel, Small size
Description
This small, slender bird is characterized by its long, spiny tail and active foraging behavior. It typically inhabits arid and semi-arid scrublands, often seen flitting through thorny bushes in search of insects.
