Scaled Fruiteater

The Scaled Fruiteater is a montane species in Ecuador, found along both Andean slopes from about 1,500 to 3,200 m in humid cloud forests and forest edges. It is generally uncommon but locally present, often seen singly or in pairs as it forages quietly in the canopy for fruits, its primary diet. The species is currently assessed as Least Concern by the IUCN, though its reliance on intact montane forest makes it vulnerable to ongoing deforestation. Its distinctive scaled breast pattern and unobtrusive behavior mark it as a subtle yet characteristic member of Ecuador’s Andean avifauna.