Andes of northern Peru (Amazonas south to La Libertad).
Rarity Status
Currently this species is not classified as a rarity in this country OR information has not been updated.
Population
Estimated population is 1,000 - 2,499 (2010) and decreasing.
Status VU
Hhabitat destruction and degradation through regular burning of páramo grassland and lowering of the treeline by several hundred metres, clearance for agriculture and grazing, selective logging, are the main threats.
For more information see BirdLife International Species Factsheet.
Habits
Pairs and small groups are sometimes seen accompanying mixed-species flocks.
Russet-mantled Softtail (Thripophaga berlepschi) [XC141780]
by Paul van Els from Above Leimebamba, Amazonas dept., Peru (song)
Russet-mantled Softtail (Thripophaga berlepschi) [XC841335]
by id from Cresta San Lorenzo, Amazonas, Peru (song)
Subspecies
No subspecies.
Placed in genus Phacellodomus by some authors, whereas others suspect that it belongs in Cranioleuca. Differs from congeners in general plumage and montane distribution, but head pattern and bill coloration very similar to those of Plain Softtail (Thripophaga fusciceps).
BirdLife International Species Factsheet