This is a medium-sized passerine endemic to the Central Sierras of Argentina, reaching approximately 17 centimeters in total length and weighing around 25–32 grams. The upperparts are brown to olive-brown, becoming somewhat more reddish on the wing coverts. A conspicuous whitish supercilium extends behind the eye and is one of its most noticeable field marks. The throat is white with fine brown spotting, while the breast, flanks, and undertail coverts are warm brown to cinnamon-buff; the belly is paler, ranging from whitish to buff. The wings are brown with a broad, conspicuous reddish-cinnamon wing bar, accompanied by a narrow darker band below it, an important feature for distinguishing this species from other members of the genus Cinclodes. The tail is mostly blackish, with brownish-red tones on the central feathers and cinnamon-colored tips on the outer feathers.
The bill is a particularly important identification feature. The maxilla is dark brownish-black, while the mandible is paler, with a yellowish to yellow-brown base. This contrasting pale mandibular base is especially useful for distinguishing it from similar-looking species, including Cinclodes fuscus. The iris is dark brown and the legs and feet are dark brownish. During displays, the bird may raise and flutter its wings, making the reddish wing bar especially conspicuous.
Geographic distribution: This species is endemic to the Central Sierras of Argentina, with its main breeding range concentrated in the mountains of Córdoba and San Luis, particularly in elevated areas of the Sierras Grandes and the Sierras de Comechingones. During the non-breeding season, it moves northward and occurs at lower elevations, extending seasonally through parts of Santiago del Estero, Catamarca, and Tucumán, with records reaching as far as Formosa. These seasonal movements are associated primarily with winter conditions and the availability of suitable habitats. Its relatively restricted breeding distribution is one of the most significant aspects of its biology.
Habitat: It primarily inhabits open montane grasslands, high-elevation grassland steppes, and rocky areas where exposed ground, rock outcrops, and low vegetation occur together. During the breeding season, it is generally found between approximately 1,600 and 2,400 meters above sea level, although it has been recorded at higher elevations. Unlike some other species of the genus, it is not strictly dependent on the immediate vicinity of water, although it regularly uses streams, rivers, springs, and other moist environments, particularly where these provide abundant food. During winter, it may occur at substantially lower elevations and move through open and montane habitats farther north.
Diet: Its diet is primarily insectivorous and includes a wide variety of small invertebrates. Recorded prey include beetles, true bugs, moths and butterflies, grasshoppers, flies, and other arthropods, as well as small mollusks and occasionally tadpoles. It may also consume seeds and other plant material opportunistically. It forages mainly on the ground and among rocks, often along streams and in areas with moist substrates. Using its strong bill, it investigates cracks, soil, vegetation, and loose material to locate prey.
Behavior: This is a predominantly terrestrial species that moves by walking or making short hops across rocks, bare ground, and the edges of aquatic environments. It is usually seen alone or in pairs and frequently uses prominent rocks as resting and lookout points. A characteristic behavior is the repeated raising and movement of the tail, while during vocal displays it may raise and flutter its wings conspicuously. Its song is a short, high-pitched and relatively complex trill, delivered from rocks or during display flights. Although its vocalizations resemble those of Cinclodes fuscus, differences in structure and complexity help distinguish the two species.
Nesting: Breeding takes place mainly between October and January. The nest is placed in protected locations, including rock crevices, cavities, caves, tunnels, and similar sheltered sites, including spaces associated with earthen banks. The nest is constructed from dry plant material and fibers and may be lined with soft materials such as mammal hair, bristles, wool, or feathers, providing insulation for the eggs and young. The usual clutch consists of 2–3 white, oval eggs. Both parents participate in incubation and subsequently feed the nestlings.
Conservation status: Globally, the species is classified as Least Concern (LC) by the IUCN. However, within Argentina it has been assessed as Vulnerable (VU) in national conservation assessments because of its restricted breeding distribution and the degradation that may affect its mountain habitats. Potential threats include the alteration and degradation of high-elevation grasslands, overgrazing, changes to streams and other water systems, fires, and other human disturbances. Protecting montane grasslands, rocky areas, and associated wet habitats is particularly important for maintaining its populations.
Compilation and publication: EcoRegistros – 09/09/2026