Silvery-throated Spinetail
NameSilvery-throated Spinetail
Common NameSilvery-throated Spinetail
Scientific NameLeptasthenura xenothorax
FamilyFurnariidae
Wingspan (cm)18
Length (cm)16.5
Weight (g)12
Plumage DetailsThis spinetail has a distinctive rufous crown, a greyish face and throat that gives it a 'silvery' appearance, and brownish-grey upperparts. Its wings feature a rufous panel, and its underparts are pale, contrasting with a long, dark, spiny tail.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations typically consist of high-pitched, rapid trills or a series of sharp, quick notes, often described as 'tsee-tsee-tsee' or 'trrrrrr'.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest, mountain
Conservation Statusendangered
Geographic RangeEndemic to the high Andes of south-central Peru, primarily found in fragmented Polylepis woodlands within the Cusco and Apurímac regions.
Identifying FeaturesRufous crown, Greyish throat, Rufous wing patch, Long, spiny tail, Small size, High-altitude Polylepis forest habitat
Description
The Silvery-throated Spinetail is a small, active passerine found in high-altitude Andean forests. It is characterized by its rufous crown, greyish throat, and long, spiny tail, often seen foraging for insects among dense foliage.
