Sooty Antbird
NameSooty Antbird
Common NameSooty Antbird
Scientific NameHafferia fortis
FamilyThamnophilidae
Wingspan (cm)28
Length (cm)18.5
Weight (g)45
Plumage DetailsMales are entirely sooty black with a prominent, bright pale blue orbital ring around the eye. Females are similar but may have a slightly browner wash, especially on the underparts, and a less intense blue orbital ring.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalization is a series of clear, whistled notes that accelerate and rise in pitch, often described as a 'pew-pew-pew' call that becomes faster and higher.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in the western Amazon basin, including southeastern Colombia, eastern Ecuador, northeastern Peru, and western Brazil.
Identifying FeaturesSooty black plumage (male), Prominent pale blue orbital ring, Medium size, Inhabits forest understory
Description
The Sooty Antbird is a medium-sized antbird characterized by its dark plumage and striking blue orbital skin. It typically forages in the understory of humid lowland and foothill forests, often following army ant swarms to catch flushed insects.
