Asthenes refers to a genus of birds belonging to the family Furnariidae and is native to South America. This genus consists of about 16 species of small, terrestrial birds commonly known as canasteros or miners. Asthenes species are primarily found in the Andes mountain range, especially in the central and southern regions.
These birds are typically small in size, measuring between 14 to 18 centimeters in length. They have relatively long bills, long wings, and short tails. The plumage of Asthenes birds is predominantly brown with various patterns, including streaks and spots, which provide excellent camouflage against their natural environment.
Asthenes birds primarily inhabit shrubby and grassy areas, including high-altitude grasslands, páramos, and subpáramos. They are known for their intricate and well-constructed nests, which are usually dome-shaped and made from a combination of grasses and other plant materials.
These birds are insectivorous, feeding mainly on various small invertebrates such as spiders, ants, beetles, and grasshoppers. They forage on the ground, often using their long bills to probe the soil or leaf litter in search of prey.
Many Asthenes species are considered threatened or endangered due to habitat loss caused by agricultural activities, urbanization, and deforestation. Conservation efforts are being made to preserve their natural habitats and protect the biodiversity they contribute to within the Andean ecosystem.
