Tacarcuna Tapaculo

The Tacarcuna tapaculo, Scytalopus panamensis, presents itself as a diminutive avian species, measuring a mere 11 cm in length. The males are adorned with dark gray upperparts, while their lower back and rump boast a reddish hue. A lighter gray graces their throat and breast, transitioning to tawny flanks and crissum, the latter being intricately barred with black. A distinct whitish supercilium marks their facial features. Females share a similar appearance but are distinguished by their browner upperparts.

Identification Tips

When endeavoring to identify the Tacarcuna tapaculo, look for its prominent whitish supercilium and the contrasting reddish rump. The barred flanks and crissum are also key characteristics to observe. Its small stature and the specific coloration patterns are helpful in distinguishing it from other species.

Habitat

This bird favors the undergrowth of humid montane forests and their edges, thriving in the lush greenery that these environments provide.

Distribution

The Tacarcuna tapaculo is an inhabitant of a rather restricted range, found only in Cerro Tacarcuna, which straddles the Panama-Colombia border, and Cerro Mali, located slightly further south in Panama.

Behaviour

Typically seen foraging on the ground or low in the vegetation, the Tacarcuna tapaculo is often encountered in pairs, quietly going about its business in the dense underbrush.

Status

The IUCN has classified the Tacarcuna tapaculo as Near Threatened. Its range is limited to an area of approximately 490 km², with an estimated population of 6,000 to 15,000 individuals. While the population is currently believed to be stable, it faces threats from mining and agricultural encroachment, despite partial protection within national parks.

Conservation Status

The precarious situation of the Tacarcuna tapaculo is underscored by its Near Threatened status, a reflection of its limited distribution and the environmental pressures it faces. Conservation efforts are hampered by the fact that existing protections do not fully encompass the bird's habitat, particularly as it resides at elevations above 600 meters, beyond the reach of certain protected areas.