Dark-breasted Spinetail

The Dark-breasted Spinetail occurs in the humid lowland forests of eastern Ecuador, particularly in Napo Province and surrounding areas, where it inhabits dense understory and shrubby edges of terra firme and floodplain forests. It is generally uncommon and secretive, often detected by its sharp vocalizations as it forages near the ground for insects and other invertebrates. The species is listed as Least Concern by the IUCN, with a broad western Amazonian range and an increasing population trend, aided by its ability to colonize disturbed habitats. Natural history observations highlight its cryptic plumage, skulking behavior, and year-round residency, though nesting habits remain poorly documented.