Coastal hills and western slope of Andes in south-western Ecuador (Loja) and north-western Peru (Tumbes south to Lambayeque).
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 logging, agricultural conversion and plantations, intense grazing, are the the main threats.
For more information see BirdLife International Species Factsheet.
Voice
Song is a series of harsh, nasal notes that start slowly and speed up. A sharp 'ank' call.
Rufous-necked Foliage-gleaner (Syndactyla ruficollis) [XC250373]
by John V. Moore from Loja: Tambo Negro 10 km E Macar\u00e1, Ecuador (song)
Rufous-necked Foliage-gleaner (Syndactyla ruficollis) [XC704798]
by id from Jorupe NR, Loja, Ecuador (call)
Subspecies
Genus sometimes merged into Philydor. Plumage, foraging behaviour and voice have suggested to some authors that it may be more closely related to Thripadectes than is indicated in linear sequences. Tentative inclusion of this species in current genus based largely on vocal characteristics. Formerly placed in Automolus, but voice and plumage unlike any species in that genus.
Proposed subspecies celicae, from south-western Ecuador, described as brighter, paler and more ochraceous, especially on upperparts, and has ochraceous supercilium and broader breast streaks. However, these features can be found throughout species' range and may be due to differences in age and plumage wear.
The following 2 subspecies are recognised:
celicae (Chapman, 1921) - Andes of extreme south-western Ecuador (Loja).
BirdLife International Species Factsheet