Black-backed Antshrike
NameBlack-backed Antshrike
Common NameBlack-backed Antshrike
Scientific NameSakesphoroides melanonotus
FamilyThamnophilidae
Wingspan (cm)18
Length (cm)14.5
Weight (g)18
Plumage DetailsMales have a glossy black head, back, and throat, with a prominent shaggy crest. The underparts are white, and the wings are black with bold white barring. Females are rufous-brown on the head and back, with a paler rufous belly and similar white wing barring.
Vocalization / CallIts song is a series of accelerating, high-pitched whistles, often described as 'pee-pee-pee-pee-peep-peep-peep-peep-peep'. It also gives a sharp 'chip' call.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in the humid lowland forests of northwestern South America, primarily in northern Colombia and northwestern Venezuela.
Identifying FeaturesShaggy black crest (male), Black back and head (male), White belly and bold white wing bars (male), Rufous-brown plumage (female), Hooked bill
Description
The Black-backed Antshrike is a small, striking antbird found in the understory of humid forests. Males are predominantly black with contrasting white markings on their wings and belly, while females have a rufous-brown plumage. They typically forage for insects in dense vegetation.
