Moustached Antpitta
NameMoustached Antpitta
Common NameMoustached Antpitta
Scientific NameGrallaria alleni
FamilyGrallariidae
Wingspan (cm)24
Length (cm)17.5
Weight (g)65
Plumage DetailsThis species has a dark gray to blackish crown and nape, contrasting with a rufous-brown back, wings, and flanks. Its most striking feature is the prominent white 'moustache' stripe, bordered by black, on the sides of its otherwise white throat. The belly is a paler rufous-orange.
Vocalization / CallIts song is a series of clear, whistled notes, often described as a slow, ascending 'whee-whee-whee-whee-whee' or 'phew-phew-phew-phew-phew' that can be quite loud and far-carrying through the forest.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest, mountain
Conservation Statusnear-threatened
Geographic RangeThe Moustached Antpitta is endemic to the Andes, found in a restricted range in southwestern Colombia and northwestern Ecuador.
Identifying Featuresprominent white moustache stripe, dark gray crown, rufous-brown body plumage, short tail, long legs, ground-dwelling behavior
Description
The Moustached Antpitta is a medium-sized, shy bird of humid montane cloud forests, typically found foraging on the forest floor. Its cryptic plumage and secretive nature make it challenging to observe, often detected only by its distinctive vocalizations.
