Thicket Tinamou

The Thicket Tinamou, also known as the Rufescent Tinamou, is a modestly sized bird, measuring between 27 to 29 cm in length and tipping the scales at approximately 440 grams. Its plumage is a study in earthy tones, with the upper parts presenting a brown hue, intricately barred with blackish markings on the back, rump, and wings. The breast is washed with a warm cinnamon, transitioning to a greyer shade on the belly, while the undertail is a paler affair, adorned with dark barring. A buff supercilium stands out on its brown head, complemented by a distinct ear covert patch. The bill is a muted brownish, and the legs are a striking red.

Identification Tips

When attempting to identify the Thicket Tinamou, look for its prominent buff supercilium and the well-defined ear covert patch. The bird's brown head, barred upper parts, and cinnamon breast are key characteristics. Its red legs can also serve as a useful identification marker.

Habitat

The Thicket Tinamou shows a preference for moist lowland forests, including gallery and deciduous forests, as well as secondary forests. It is also known to inhabit shrubland and drier forests, adapting to altitudes up to 1,850 meters.

Distribution

This species has a broad range, extending from the coastal strip of western Mexico in Sinaloa down to Costa Rica, and along the eastern coast of Mexico from the United States border into Belize. It also ventures into the highlands in the southern part of its range.

Behaviour

The Thicket Tinamou is often encountered either in pairs, family groups, or as a solitary bird. It exhibits a preference for walking over flying, in line with the typical behavior of tinamous. Its voice is described as a monotonous 'whoo-oo', reminiscent of a steam engine.

Song & Calls

The call of the Thicket Tinamou is a distinctive 'whoo-oo', a sound that once heard, is not easily forgotten.

Breeding

Nesting on the ground, often beside raised roots, the Thicket Tinamou lays approximately three eggs, although clutches can contain up to seven. The eggs are notable for their glossy, purple hue. This species is also known to hybridize with the Slaty-breasted Tinamou.

Diet and Feeding

The diet of the Thicket Tinamou is varied, including fruit, seeds, and invertebrates, reflecting the bird's adaptability and resourcefulness in its feeding habits.

Conservation status

The IUCN has classified the Thicket Tinamou as Least Concern, with an estimated occurrence range of 600,000 square kilometers, indicating a stable population that does not currently face significant threats to its survival.