Slaty Spinetail
NameSlaty Spinetail
Common NameSlaty Spinetail
Scientific NameSynallaxis brachyura
FamilyFurnariidae
Wingspan (cm)20
Length (cm)13.5
Weight (g)14
Plumage DetailsThe Slaty Spinetail has a prominent rufous (rusty orange) crown and a matching rufous patch on its shoulders/wings. The rest of its body, including the face, throat, breast, and belly, is a uniform slaty gray. Its tail is dark and often appears somewhat spiny.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations typically consist of a series of sharp, often accelerating 'chip' notes, sometimes described as a rapid trill or a 'chip-chip-chip-chrrrrr'.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeThe Slaty Spinetail is found in Central and South America, ranging from Costa Rica and Panama south through Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru, primarily on the Pacific slope and in the Andes.
Identifying FeaturesSlaty gray body plumage, Rufous crown, Rufous wing patch, Small size, Often found in dense undergrowth
Description
The Slaty Spinetail is a small, active passerine found in the undergrowth of humid forests. It typically forages low in dense vegetation, often flicking its tail as it moves. This species is known for its distinctive rufous crown and wing patches contrasting with its slaty gray body.
