A stunning and boldly patterned spinetail of dry areas in Colombia and Venezuela. Unmistakable; has a rufous body with gray crown, contrasting black face and throat, prominent white “whiskers”, and a white belly. Found in desert scrub and very dry forest edges. Typically found alone or in pairs, actively foraging and often not that difficult to see. Very vocal; song a loud “pa, PEE”, “pa, PEE-PEe”, sometimes with more “PEE” notes.