Patagonian Forest Earthcreeper

Description: Very similar to the Common Bandurrita (Upucerthia dumetaria). It differs from this species in vocalization (Areta and Pearman, 2009). Much darker than the Common Bandurrita, both in adults and juveniles (unlike the Common Bandurrita, whose juveniles are lighter), it has an olive-brown back, with a darker reddish-brown ventral area, stronger on the flanks, and all its measurements are noticeably smaller (Zotta, 1938).

Geographical Distribution: Chile (Cautín to Valparaíso) and Argentina (Neuquén, near Lake Nahuel Huapi; Río Negro, Nahuel Huapi National Park; northwest Chubut).

Habitat: Transition between the Patagonian steppe and the Andean-Patagonian forest.

Nesting: Breeding confirmed in Nahuel Huapi National Park.

Acknowledgments: to Mariano Costa for the information provided about the species.

Compiler of this description: Jorge La Grotteria