|
Rhinocryptidae:
The tapaculos are a group of small suboscine passeriform birds with numerous species, found in South America. They are usually placed in a distinct family Rhinocryptidae; more recent research (Rice, 2005) indicates that they might be better merged into the Formicariidae as tribe Rhinocryptini, as they are closer to the antthrushes than either is to the formicariid antpittas. Alternatively, the latter might be raised to family status. These are terrestrial species that fly only poorly on their short wings. They have strong legs, well-suited to their habitat of grassland or forest undergrowth. The tail is cocked and pointed towards the head, and the name tapaculo derives from the Spanish for "cover your behind”.
While the majority of the family are small blackish or brown birds there are some larger and more colourful species. They are best located and identified by their vocalisations.
They feed on insects, seeds and other soft plant material with their pointy bills, and will scratch on the ground like a pheasant.
Most species lay two or three white eggs in a covered location, whether it be a burrow, a hole in a tree, or a domed nest. |
