Tamarugo Conebill
NameTamarugo Conebill
Common NameTamarugo Conebill
Scientific NameConirostrum tamarugense
FamilyThraupidae
Wingspan (cm)17
Length (cm)11.5
Weight (g)9
Plumage DetailsMales have a grey head and upperparts, with whitish underparts. A prominent reddish-orange patch covers the throat and chin. The bill is short, pointed, and conical. Females are similar but lack or have a much duller throat patch.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include high-pitched 'tseet' or 'tsip' calls, often given while foraging.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsdesert, forest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeEndemic to the Atacama Desert of northern Chile, primarily associated with Tamarugo (Prosopis tamarugo) forests. There are also some records from southern Peru.
Identifying FeaturesSmall size, Grey plumage with whitish underparts, Reddish-orange throat patch (males), Short, conical bill, Exclusive association with Tamarugo trees
Description
The Tamarugo Conebill is a small, active passerine endemic to the Atacama Desert. Males are characterized by their grey plumage and a distinctive reddish-orange throat patch, while females are similar but lack or have a duller patch. They are typically found foraging for insects in the canopy of Tamarugo trees.
