Rhynchospiza stolzmanni
The Tumbes Sparrow, *Rhynchospiza stolzmanni*, is a small, relatively secretive passerine endemic to the arid scrub and dry deciduous forests of southwestern Ecuador and northwestern Peru. Measuring approximately 13-14 cm (5.1-5.5 inches) in length and weighing 15-20 grams, it exhibits a distinctive plumage characterized by a greyish-brown head, a bright rufous crown stripe, a prominent white supercilium, and contrasting rufous ear coverts. Its upperparts are streaked brown and blackish, whil...
Found in arid and semi-arid scrub, dry deciduous forests, and woodland edges, typically preferring areas with dense undergrowth. It primarily inhabits low to mid-elevations, generally up to 1000 meters.
Feeds predominantly on small seeds gleaned from the ground, supplemented by insects and other invertebrates, especially during the breeding season.
This diurnal sparrow is often secretive, spending much of its time skulking in dense vegetation, making its distinctive song often heard before it is seen. It forages primarily on the ground, gleaning seeds and insects, but will also pick prey from low shrubs and cacti. During the breeding season...
The Tumbes Sparrow is strictly resident and endemic to the Pacific slope of southwestern Ecuador and northwestern Peru. In Ecuador, its distribution extends through the provinces of Manabí, Guayas, El Oro, and Loja. Southward, its range continues into Peru, inhabiting the departments of Tumbes, P...
Least Concern
- The Tumbes Sparrow is endemic to a highly specific biogeographic region, the Tumbes Endemic Bird Area, making it a true regional specialist. - It underwent a significant taxonomic reclassification, moving from the genus *Aimophila* to *Rhynchospiza*, highlighting ongoing research in avian syste...