The Spotted Barbtail is a distinctive Furnariid, notable for the subtle spotting on its plumage and its specialized tail feathers. It inhabits humid montane forests.
Where to spot
Found in humid montane forests and cloud forests along the eastern slopes of the Andes, from Colombia and Venezuela south to Peru.
How to spot
Look for it foraging on mossy branches and trunks in the mid-story, often as part of mixed-species flocks. The subtle spotting and unique tail shape are identification clues.
When to spot
Most active in the early morning and late afternoon. It is a resident species, observable year-round.
Where to spot
Found in humid montane forests and cloud forests along the eastern slopes of the Andes, from Colombia and Venezuela south to Peru.
How to spot
Look for it foraging on mossy branches and trunks in the mid-story, often as part of mixed-species flocks. The subtle spotting and unique tail shape are identification clues.
When to spot
Most active in the early morning and late afternoon. It is a resident species, observable year-round.
Its 'barbtail' name comes from the stiffened, pointed tips of its tail feathers, which may aid in bracing itself against tree trunks while foraging, similar to some woodpeckers.
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.