Synallaxis stictothorax
The Necklaced Spinetail, scientifically known as *Synallaxis stictothorax*, is a striking member of the Furnariidae family, which includes ovenbirds and woodcreepers. This small passerine, measuring about 11-12 cm in length and weighing 9-11 grams, is easily identified by its distinctive black-and-white streaked 'necklace' across a pale whitish throat, which gives the species its common name. Its plumage features a rufous crown, a streaky greyish-brown back, and prominent rufous wings and tai...
Found in arid and semi-arid scrub, dry deciduous forests, and dense riparian thickets. Typically inhabits thorny woodlands and dense undergrowth from sea level up to approximately 1000 meters elevation.
Primarily insectivorous, feeding on a variety of small arthropods, including insects and spiders. They glean prey actively from dense foliage and branches.
Necklaced Spinetails are generally shy and skulking, often remaining hidden within dense thorny vegetation, making visual observation challenging; their distinctive calls are often the first sign of their presence. They are active foragers, gleaning small insects and other arthropods from leaves,...
The Necklaced Spinetail is endemic to a restricted geographic range spanning southwestern Ecuador and northwestern Peru. Its distribution in Ecuador extends from Manabí south through Guayas, El Oro, and into Loja provinces. In Peru, it is found across the Tumbes, Piura, and Lambayeque regions. Th...
Least Concern
- The specific epithet 'stictothorax' is derived from Greek, meaning 'spot-breasted' or 'streaked-breast', a direct reference to its most prominent field mark. - Despite its relatively small body size, the Necklaced Spinetail constructs surprisingly large and intricate stick nests, often hidden d...