The Rufous-banded Miner is a striking terrestrial bird of high-altitude grasslands, named for the distinctive rufous band on its wings. It forages on the ground, often near rocks or sparse vegetation.
Where to spot
Found in high-altitude puna grasslands, rocky slopes, and semi-arid scrub of the Andes, from northern Peru south through Bolivia, Chile, and Argentina.
How to spot
Look for it walking quickly on the ground. Its rufous wing-band, especially evident in flight, is the most reliable field mark. Also listen for its simple, repetitive calls.
When to spot
Active year-round, primarily during the day. Can be observed foraging throughout the day in its open habitat.
Where to spot
Found in high-altitude puna grasslands, rocky slopes, and semi-arid scrub of the Andes, from northern Peru south through Bolivia, Chile, and Argentina.
How to spot
Look for it walking quickly on the ground. Its rufous wing-band, especially evident in flight, is the most reliable field mark. Also listen for its simple, repetitive calls.
When to spot
Active year-round, primarily during the day. Can be observed foraging throughout the day in its open habitat.
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
The rufous wing-band is especially noticeable in flight or when the wings are slightly open, providing a flash of color in an otherwise muted landscape.
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.