Orinoco softtail facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Orinoco softtail
In várzea forest near Inírida, Colombia
Conservation status
Vulnerable (IUCN 3.1)
Scientific classification
Genus:	Thripophaga
Species:	cherriei

The Orinoco softtail (Thripophaga cherriei) is a special kind of bird that belongs to the Furnariidae family. This family is known for its ovenbirds. The Orinoco softtail is found only in one specific area. It lives in the state of Amazonas in southwestern Venezuela. This means it is endemic to that region, so you won't find it naturally anywhere else in the world!

So far, this bird has only been seen along the Río Capuana. This river is a branch of the much larger Río Orinoco. Scientists are still looking to see if it lives in other places too.

Where the Orinoco Softtail Lives

The Orinoco softtail's natural home is a type of tropical moist lowland forest. These forests are found near rivers, which is why they are called riparian forests. The bird especially likes a kind of forest called várzea forest. These forests are often flooded for part of the year.

Its Forest Home

The várzea forests where the Orinoco softtail lives are usually about 100 meters (about 330 feet) above sea level. This specific type of wet forest is very important for the bird's survival. It provides the right kind of food and shelter.

Why the Orinoco Softtail Needs Help

Sadly, the Orinoco softtail is considered a vulnerable species. This means it is at risk of disappearing. The biggest threat to this bird is habitat loss.

Threats to Its Home

Habitat loss happens when the natural places where animals live are destroyed or changed. For the Orinoco softtail, this means its várzea forest home is shrinking. When forests are cut down or changed, the birds lose their food sources, nesting sites, and safe places to live. Protecting these unique forests is key to helping the Orinoco softtail survive.

See also

In Spanish: Colasuave del Orinoco para niños