Black-cheeked Ant-Tanager
NameBlack-cheeked Ant-Tanager
Common NameBlack-cheeked Ant-Tanager
Scientific NameHabia atrimaxillaris
FamilyCardinalidae
Wingspan (cm)26.5
Length (cm)18.5
Weight (g)42.5
Plumage DetailsMales display a black face, throat, and upper breast, sharply delineated by a bright orange-rufous collar that extends to the lower breast and belly. The back and wings are dark olive-brown to blackish. Females are duller overall, with a dark olive-brown head and upperparts, and a less intense rufous-orange on the throat and underparts.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations include a series of sharp, ringing notes that often accelerate into a trill. Common calls are a distinct 'chip' or 'chick' sound.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusvulnerable
Geographic RangeEndemic to the Osa Peninsula and adjacent areas of southwestern Costa Rica, primarily found in lowland and foothill humid evergreen forests.
Identifying FeaturesBlack face and throat (male), Bright orange-rufous collar and underparts (male), Dark olive-brown to blackish upperparts, Heavy, dark bill, Restricted geographic range in southwestern Costa Rica
Description
This medium-sized songbird is characterized by its striking black face and throat, contrasting with a vibrant orange-rufous collar and underparts. It typically forages in the dense understory of humid forests, often as part of mixed-species flocks.
