Chestnut-backed Antbird
NameChestnut-backed Antbird
Common NameChestnut-backed Antbird
Scientific NamePoliocrania exsul
FamilyThamnophilidae
Wingspan (cm)18
Length (cm)14.5
Weight (g)25
Plumage DetailsMales have a black head, throat, and breast, with a prominent bright blue bare skin orbital ring around the eye. The back, wings, and tail are a rich chestnut-brown. Females are similar but often have a slightly duller black and a less extensive blue orbital ring.
Vocalization / CallIts song is a series of clear, whistled notes that accelerate and rise in pitch, often described as 'pew-pew-pew-pew-PEW-PEW-PEW'. Calls include sharp 'chip' notes.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in humid lowland forests from Honduras south through Nicaragua, Costa Rica, Panama, and western Colombia to northwestern Ecuador.
Identifying FeaturesBright blue orbital ring, Chestnut-brown back and wings, Black head, throat, and breast (male), Small size, Prefers dense undergrowth
Description
This small, shy antbird forages in the undergrowth of humid lowland forests, often near army ant swarms. It is characterized by its dark plumage with a striking blue orbital ring, making it a distinctive inhabitant of its dense habitat.
