Black Antbird
NameBlack Antbird
Common NameBlack Antbird
Scientific NameMyrmeciza nigriceps
FamilyThamnophilidae
Wingspan (cm)20
Length (cm)14
Weight (g)21
Plumage DetailsThe male Black Antbird (as seen in the image) is entirely glossy black, with two prominent white wing bars formed by white tips to the greater and median wing coverts. The bill and legs are dark. Females have a rufous-brown body, a black head, and similar white wing bars.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalization is typically a series of clear, whistled notes that often accelerate and rise in pitch, sometimes described as a 'pee-pee-pee-PEE-PEE-PEE-pew-pew' sequence.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeThis species is endemic to the eastern slopes of the Andes, found in southeastern Ecuador and northern Peru.
Identifying FeaturesAll-black plumage (male), Two distinct white wing bars, Stout body and relatively short tail, Dark bill and legs, Secretive behavior in dense forest understory
Description
This small, stocky antbird is typically found foraging in the dense undergrowth of humid lowland and foothill forests. Males are entirely black with striking white wing bars, making them distinctive in their dark habitat. They are often heard before they are seen, moving secretively through the vegetation.
