 | This article includes a list of general references, but it lacks sufficient corresponding inline citations. (August 2019) |
| Canasteros | |
|---|---|
| |
| Cordilleran canastero (Asthenes modesta) | |
Scientific classification 
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| Domain: | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom: | Animalia |
| Phylum: | Chordata |
| Class: | Aves |
| Order: | Passeriformes |
| Family: | Furnariidae |
| Genus: | Asthenes Reichenbach, 1853 |
| Type species | |
| Synallaxis sordida Sharp-billed canastero Lesson, 1839
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| Species | |
|
see text | |
| Synonyms[1][2] | |
| |
Canasteros and thistletails are small passerine birds of South America belonging to the genus Asthenes. The name "canastero" comes from Spanish and means "basket-maker", referring to the large, domed nests these species make of sticks or grass. They inhabit shrublands and grasslands in temperate climates from the lowlands to the highlands. They feed on insects and other invertebrates gleaned from the ground or the low vegetation.