Magellanic Tapaculo

105mm in length, 12g average weight. Black beak, brown legs, coloration varies significantly from juveniles to adults. Young specimens have a brownish plumage that turns black (without violet sheen) as they reach adulthood. It is common to find specimens that are black ventrally but with brown backs and primaries. Adults are completely black without brown tones, and the area between the eyes and beak is more intensely black. Juveniles, on the other hand, are entirely brown with a darker crossbar pattern and a scaly appearance.

Many specimens present a striking white area on the top of the head, which can even extend to the forehead and crown. The reason for this alteration is not well understood, but it is not related to age or season.

Sexual Dimorphism: None.

Habitat: Prefers the lower strata, usually where there is dense vegetation in humid and dark understory areas.

Behavior: Restless, commonly seen running on tree trunks, moving with quick jumps and darting through the vegetation. Its tail is always erect during its movements. It is a very curious bird that has no problem approaching humans.

Nesting: Nests in hollows, preferably in low cliffs, but also in hollow trees where it lays three white eggs.

Feeding: Feeds on invertebrates or insects that it captures on the forest floor.

Authors of this description: Diego Oscar