Hairy-crested Antbird
NameHairy-crested Antbird
Common NameHairy-crested Antbird
Scientific NameRhegmatorhina melanosticta
FamilyThamnophilidae
Wingspan (cm)22.5
Length (cm)14.5
Weight (g)27.5
Plumage DetailsMales are predominantly dark brown with a black head and a distinctive shaggy crest of stiff, black feathers. The most prominent feature is the bright blue bare skin surrounding the eye. Females are similar but may have slightly more rufous-brown underparts.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a series of clear, whistled notes that often accelerate and rise in pitch, as well as rapid 'chip-chip-chip' calls.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in the western Amazon basin, including southeastern Colombia, eastern Ecuador, eastern Peru, northern Bolivia, and western Brazil.
Identifying FeaturesBright blue bare orbital ring, Shaggy black crest, Dark brown body plumage, Association with army ant swarms
Description
The Hairy-crested Antbird is a medium-sized antbird known for its striking bright blue bare orbital ring and a prominent shaggy black crest. It typically forages in the understory of humid lowland forests, often following army ant swarms to catch flushed invertebrates.
