The Little Hornero

The Little Hornero, also known as the Lesser Hornero or Little Hornero, is a species of bird that is native to South America. It is a member of the Furnariidae family, which includes other ovenbirds like the Rufous Hornero.

The Furnarius minor is a small bird, measuring about 16 to 17 centimeters in length. It has a reddish-brown plumage with darker brown streaks on its back and wings. Its underparts are paler in color, and it has a distinctive white eyebrow stripe above its eye. Its bill is short and slightly curved, ideal for its insectivorous diet.

One of the most remarkable traits of the Furnarius minor is its nest-building behavior. Like other ovenbirds, it constructs large, domed nests out of mud and clay, which resemble miniature ovens. These nests are built on trees, fences, or even on the ground, and provide protection for the eggs and chicks against predators and harsh weather.

The Furnarius minor is a highly social bird, often seen in pairs or small groups. They are territorial and will defend their nesting sites from intruders. Their song is a series of melodious whistles and trills, which they use to communicate with each other.

In terms of diet, the Furnarius minor primarily feeds on insects and small invertebrates that it finds on the ground or in trees. It forages by hopping along the forest floor or probing into crevices with its bill.

The conservation status of the Furnarius minor is currently considered of Least Concern, as it has a wide distribution and stable population. However, like many bird species, it faces threats from habitat loss and fragmentation due to deforestation and agriculture.

Overall, the Furnarius minor is a fascinating bird species with its distinctive appearance, nest-building behavior, and social nature. It is a beloved bird in South America and plays an important ecological role in its ecosystem.