Tufted Tit-Spinetail
NameTufted Tit-Spinetail
Common NameTufted Tit-Spinetail
Scientific NameLeptasthenura platensis
FamilyFurnariidae
Wingspan (cm)18
Length (cm)16
Weight (g)10
Plumage DetailsOverall dull brownish-grey plumage. The head features a distinctive shaggy crest and is finely streaked. Underparts are paler, often whitish-buff, and the long, spiny tail is dark brown.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations include high-pitched, thin trills and rapid series of sharp, reedy notes, often given while foraging.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland, forest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in southern South America, primarily in Argentina, extending into parts of Uruguay, Paraguay, and southern Bolivia.
Identifying FeaturesProminent shaggy crest, Very long, spiny, graduated tail, Streaked head pattern, Small size, Active foraging behavior
Description
The Tufted Tit-Spinetail is a small, active passerine bird characterized by its prominent, shaggy crest and exceptionally long, graduated tail. It typically forages for insects in the mid-story and canopy of shrubs and trees, often in dry, open habitats.
