A distinctive-looking spinetail found from central Colombia to Trinidad and Tobago. Dark brown overall with rusty wings. Look for a whitish throat and dark streaking on chest. Some variation across range; populations differ in the amount of streaking and the presence or absence of a buffy eyebrow. Occurs in the understory of forests, edges, and scrubbier woodland from sea level to around 1,500 m. Like many other spinetails, skulky and difficult to see. Listen for squeaky nasal “peet-purr!” calls, often repeated.