Black-and-white Antbird
NameBlack-and-white Antbird
Common NameBlack-and-white Antbird
Scientific NameMyrmochanes hemileucus
FamilyThamnophilidae
Wingspan (cm)16
Length (cm)11.5
Weight (g)11
Plumage DetailsMales have a glossy black head, back, wings, and tail, contrasting sharply with a white throat, breast, and belly. They feature prominent white wing bars and spots on the wing coverts. Females have a similar pattern but are duller, often with brownish-black upperparts and buffy-white underparts.
Vocalization / CallIts song is a series of clear, whistled notes, often accelerating and rising slightly in pitch, described as 'pew-pew-pew-pew-pew-pew-pew'.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in the western Amazon basin, including parts of Brazil, Peru, Ecuador, Colombia, and Bolivia. It typically inhabits lowland tropical and subtropical moist forests, often along rivers and streams.
Identifying FeaturesStriking black and white plumage (males), Prominent white wing bars and spots, Small size, Often found in forest undergrowth near water
Description
This small antbird exhibits a striking black and white plumage, with males being more boldly patterned. It typically forages in the undergrowth of humid forests, often near water, searching for insects.
