Scaly-throated Leaftosser
NameScaly-throated Leaftosser
Common NameScaly-throated Leaftosser
Scientific NameSclerurus guatemalensis
FamilyFurnariidae
Wingspan (cm)22
Length (cm)16
Weight (g)30
Plumage DetailsOverall dark brown plumage, with a rufous lower back and rump. The throat and upper breast are dusky brown with a distinctive scaly pattern created by darker feather edges, giving the bird its common name. The belly is a slightly paler brown.
Vocalization / CallIts song is a series of clear, high-pitched, whistled notes, often accelerating into a trill. It also produces various sharp call notes.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in humid lowland forests from southeastern Mexico (Veracruz, Oaxaca, Chiapas) through Central America (Belize, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, Panama) to northwestern Colombia.
Identifying Featuresdark brown plumage, scaly throat pattern, rufous rump, terrestrial foraging behavior, short tail, stout bill
Description
The Scaly-throated Leaftosser is a small, dark brown, terrestrial bird typically found foraging on the forest floor. It uses its strong bill to toss leaf litter aside in search of invertebrates, often remaining hidden in dense undergrowth. This species is characterized by its relatively short tail and stout body.
