Sclerurus caudacutus
The Black-tailed Leaftosser (Sclerurus caudacutus) is a distinctive, secretive passerine belonging to the Furnariidae family, a group known for their intricate nests and specialized foraging. Measuring approximately 15-18 cm (6-7 inches) in length and weighing around 25-35 grams, this robust bird is characterized by its overall dark brown plumage, often appearing nearly black on the upperparts, contrasting with a rich rufous or reddish-brown throat and breast. Its most notable field mark, whi...
This species primarily inhabits the understory of humid tropical and subtropical lowland and montane forests, favoring areas with dense ground cover and substantial leaf litter. It can be found from sea level up to approximately 2000 meters in elevation, occasionally higher.
The Black-tailed Leaftosser feeds almost exclusively on a variety of invertebrates, including insects, spiders, centipedes, and worms, which it uncovers by raking and flipping leaf litter.
The Black-tailed Leaftosser is a diurnal, highly secretive bird of the forest floor, often detected by its distinctive vocalizations rather than sight. It forages solitarily or in pairs, exhibiting its signature "leaftossing" technique: aggressively raking and flipping dead leaves, moss, and othe...
The Black-tailed Leaftosser is a resident species distributed widely but patchily across humid tropical and subtropical lowlands and foothills of South America. Its extensive range spans the Amazon Basin, including parts of Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, and Brazil, extending north into the Gu...
Least Concern
- The "leaftosser" name is not just descriptive; these birds are true excavators, using their stout bills to aggressively flip large amounts of leaf litter to expose hidden prey. - Its stiff, dark tail isn't just for show; it's a vital tool, acting as a prop or brace against the ground when the b...