A large and uniquely patterned tapaculo, covered in prominent white 'ocelli' or spots on a dark background. It is a rare and secretive inhabitant of high-elevation cloud forests.
Where to spot
Found in the humid montane forests and cloud forests of the Andes, from northern Colombia south through Ecuador and into northern Peru. It prefers dense undergrowth, often with bamboo.
How to spot
Listen for its loud, deep hooting calls. Patience is key, as it forages on the forest floor but stays close to dense cover. It is a highly sought-after species due to its beauty and elusiveness.
When to spot
Most vocal during early morning and late afternoon. Can be observed year-round in its range.
Where to spot
Found in the humid montane forests and cloud forests of the Andes, from northern Colombia south through Ecuador and into northern Peru. It prefers dense undergrowth, often with bamboo.
How to spot
Listen for its loud, deep hooting calls. Patience is key, as it forages on the forest floor but stays close to dense cover. It is a highly sought-after species due to its beauty and elusiveness.
When to spot
Most vocal during early morning and late afternoon. Can be observed year-round in its range.
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Its striking 'ocelli' pattern makes it arguably the most visually distinct tapaculo, but it is notoriously shy and difficult to see clearly in its dark, mossy habitat.
We use cookies to improve your experience on our website. Essential cookies are necessary for basic functionality, while analytical cookies help us understand how visitors use our website so we can improve it.
Cookie Preferences
Customize your privacy settings
Choose which cookies you want to allow. Necessary cookies are always enabled for the basic functionality of the website. You can always change your preferences later via the cookie settings in the footer.
Necessary Cookies
These cookies are essential for the website to function properly and cannot be disabled.
Analytics Cookies
Help us understand how visitors use our website, so we can improve it.