Black-tailed Antbird
NameBlack-tailed Antbird
Common NameBlack-tailed Antbird
Scientific NameSciaphylax melanoceps
FamilyThamnophilidae
Wingspan (cm)20
Length (cm)12.5
Weight (g)17.5
Plumage DetailsMales are primarily blackish with a prominent white stripe on the wing, formed by white tips on the greater and median wing coverts. They have striking bright red eyes. Females are similar but may appear slightly duller or have a brownish wash.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalization is typically a series of accelerating, high-pitched whistles or 'peep' notes, often ending in a trill.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in the western Amazon basin, including southeastern Colombia, eastern Ecuador, northeastern Peru, and northwestern Brazil.
Identifying FeaturesSmall, dark antbird, Bright red eyes, White wing-stripe (especially on males), Prefers dense undergrowth and bamboo thickets, Often associated with army ant swarms
Description
The Black-tailed Antbird is a small, dark antbird found in the understory of humid lowland forests. It is typically observed foraging for insects, often in association with army ant swarms, moving stealthily through dense vegetation.
