Long-billed Gnatwren
NameLong-billed Gnatwren
Common NameLong-billed Gnatwren
Scientific NameRamphocaenus melanurus
FamilyPolioptilidae
Wingspan (cm)16
Length (cm)11.5
Weight (g)7
Plumage DetailsUpperparts are grayish-brown, contrasting with prominent rufous-chestnut coloration on the sides of the head and neck, extending to the upper breast. The throat and belly are white. It possesses a dark, often cocked tail and a very long, slender, slightly upturned bill.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations typically consist of a series of high-pitched, reedy, and often rapid notes, sometimes described as a 'tseet-tseet-tseet' or a trilling 'swee-swee-swee-swee'.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in Central and South America, ranging from southern Mexico through Central America to northern South America, including countries like Colombia, Venezuela, Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, and Brazil.
Identifying FeaturesVery long, slender, slightly upturned bill, Rufous-chestnut face and neck, Small size, Active foraging in dense undergrowth, Dark, often cocked tail
Description
This small, slender bird is characterized by its remarkably long, thin, and slightly upturned bill. It actively forages in dense undergrowth, often flicking its dark, cocked tail. Its appearance includes brownish upperparts and distinctive rufous-chestnut markings on its face and neck.
