Phacellodomus dorsalis
The Chestnut-backed Thornbird (*Phacellodomus dorsalis*) is a medium-sized, strikingly plumaged passerine endemic to the dry intermontane valleys of northern Peru, belonging to the Furnariidae family of ovenbirds. Averaging 18-20 cm (7-8 in) in length and weighing approximately 30-35 grams (1.1-1.2 oz), its most distinctive field mark is the rich, rufous-chestnut plumage covering its entire back, mantle, and rump, providing a stark contrast to its pale gray head, throat, and underparts. A pro...
Primarily inhabits arid to semi-arid scrublands, dry deciduous forests, and shrubby areas along riparian zones, typically found at elevations ranging from 500 to 2,500 meters (1,640-8,200 ft).
Primarily insectivorous, this thornbird consumes a variety of arthropods, including beetles, caterpillars, ants, and spiders, which it gleans from foliage and bark.
The Chestnut-backed Thornbird is a diurnal and highly active species, often observed singly or in pairs, methodically foraging through dense vegetation. Its primary foraging strategy involves gleaning insects and other invertebrates from leaves, twigs, and bark, often making quick, precise moveme...
The Chestnut-backed Thornbird is strictly endemic to a highly restricted range within northern Peru, primarily inhabiting the arid and semi-arid valleys of the Marañón River drainage system. Its distribution extends from southern Cajamarca and northern Amazonas departments southward through La Li...
Least Concern
- The Chestnut-backed Thornbird is a true "valley specialist," found exclusively within the dry, intermontane Marañón River valley of northern Peru. - Its common name, "thornbird," is derived from its habit of building massive, thorny stick nests, which can provide excellent protection against pr...