Habitat
Undergrowth of montane forests, along forest edges, in altered habitat and in shrubs in open habitats. From 2,000 - 3,000 m, occasionally down to 900 m.
Rarity Status
Currently this species is not classified as a rarity in this country OR information has not been updated.
Population
Estimated population is 2,500 - 9,999 (2010) and decreasing.
Status VU
Habitat destruction and degradation through illegal agricultural expansion, logging and burning is the main threat.
For more information see BirdLife International Species Factsheet.
Habits
In pairs or family groups, which accompany mixed-species flocks.
Rusty-headed Spinetail (Synallaxis fuscorufa) [XC353734]
by Iv\u00e1n Lau from Cuchilla San Lorenzo. Sierra Santa Marta, Colombia (song)
Rusty-headed Spinetail (Synallaxis fuscorufa) [XC481614]
by Michael Hurben from road towards San Lorenzo ridge, above El Dorado, Santa Marta, Magdalena, Colombia (song)
Subspecies
No subspecies.
Forms a superspecies with Rufous Spinetail (Synallaxis unirufa) and Black-throated Spinetail (Synallaxis castanea) and all three have sometimes been considered conspecific, but substantial vocal differences documented and reciprocal playback trials reveal pronounced vocal discrimination.
BirdLife International Species Factsheet