Slaty Spinetail

The Slaty Spinetail, known scientifically as Synallaxis brachyura, is a small, inconspicuous bird with a distinctive spiny tail. This passerine, part of the Furnariidae family, measures between 14 to 16 cm in length and weighs between 16 to 21 grams. Both sexes exhibit similar plumage, characterized by a blend of rufous-chestnut, sooty brown, and slate-brown hues, with a striking blackish throat and reddish to orange-brown eyes.

Identification Tips

To identify the Slaty Spinetail, look for its grayish supercilium and darker gray face, contrasted by a deep rufous-chestnut crown and nape. The back is a dark sooty brown to slate-brown, transitioning to a slightly browner rump and uppertail coverts. The wings have rufous-chestnut coverts and dark brown flight feathers. Its tail, lacking barbs at the tips, appears spiny. The underparts are a gradient from dark sooty brown on the breast to paler gray-brown on the belly.

Habitat

This species thrives in a variety of landscapes with dense undergrowth, such as second-growth scrublands, riparian thickets, overgrown clearings, and forest edges. It can also be found in thorn scrub, swamp edges, and gardens.

Distribution

The Slaty Spinetail is distributed from Honduras south to Peru, with four recognized subspecies occupying distinct geographical areas across Central and South America.

Behaviour

A year-round resident, the Slaty Spinetail is often observed foraging in pairs, gleaning arthropods and seeds from foliage and leaf litter. It is a bird that adapts well to its environment, tolerating moderate habitat disturbance.

Song & Calls

The vocal repertoire of the Slaty Spinetail includes a series of "ch" notes followed by a trill, reminiscent of a wren's song. It also emits a "chk" call while foraging and a "chee-ah" call in other contexts.

Breeding

The breeding season of the Slaty Spinetail is not fully defined, but nests have been found during various months in Costa Rica. Its nest is a bulky structure made of thorny sticks with a horizontal entrance tube, lined with soft materials. The species lays clutches of two to three eggs, with both parents sharing incubation duties and care for the young.

Similar Species

While the Slaty Spinetail has a unique appearance, it may be confused with other spinetail species. Careful observation of its plumage and distinctive tail structure can aid in correct identification.

Diet and Feeding

The diet of the Slaty Spinetail consists primarily of arthropods, supplemented with seeds. It forages in the understory, meticulously inspecting leaves and branches for its prey.

Conservation status

The IUCN has classified the Slaty Spinetail as Least Concern, with a stable population estimated to be over 500,000 mature individuals. The species benefits from forest fragmentation and is considered fairly common within its range, occurring in several protected areas.