Spillmann's Tapaculo Scytalopus spillmanni

A standard Scytalopus tapaculo: plain dark gray with browner flanks and rump. Acts like a mouse, scurrying around on or near the ground within montane forest. Very difficult to see, but quite common in its range in the Andes in Colombia and Ecuador. Occurs from around 1,900–3,200 m, which is typically higher than Nariño Tapaculo. Averages slightly lower in elevation than Blackish Tapaculo, but plenty of overlap. Note the very different song. More often heard than seen. Listen for a trill so fast that you can’t distinguish individual notes.