Northern Slaty-Antshrike
NameNorthern Slaty-Antshrike
Common NameNorthern Slaty-Antshrike
Scientific NameThamnophilus atrinucha
FamilyThamnophilidae
Wingspan (cm)20
Length (cm)14.5
Weight (g)20
Plumage DetailsFemale plumage features a rufous (reddish-brown) crown, olive-brown back and upperparts, and paler buffy-brown underparts. The dark wing coverts are marked with two rows of prominent white spots, forming distinct wing bars. The bill is dark gray, and the legs are bluish-gray.
Vocalization / CallThe song is an accelerating series of 'chup' or 'chur' notes, often descending slightly and ending in a short rattle or trill. Calls include sharp 'chip' notes.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeThis species is found in Central America from southeastern Honduras south through Nicaragua, Costa Rica, and Panama, extending into northwestern South America, including western Colombia and western Ecuador.
Identifying FeaturesRufous crown (female), White-spotted wing coverts, Bluish-gray legs, Stocky build with short tail, Hooked bill tip
Description
This small, stocky antshrike is characterized by its relatively short tail and distinctive plumage. Females, like the one pictured, have a rufous crown, olive-brown upperparts, and buffy underparts, often with prominent white spots on the wing coverts. They typically forage in the understory of humid forests, actively searching for insects.
