Spot-backed Antshrike
NameSpot-backed Antshrike
Common NameSpot-backed Antshrike
Scientific NameHypoedaleus guttatus
FamilyThamnophilidae
Wingspan (cm)26.5
Length (cm)19.5
Weight (g)45
Plumage DetailsUpperparts are black with prominent white spots, particularly on the back, wings, and head, giving a heavily speckled appearance. Underparts are whitish, transitioning to a distinctive rufous-yellow on the flanks and undertail coverts. The tail is long and barred black and white.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalization is a loud, ringing series of whistles, often accelerating and descending in pitch, sometimes described as 'whee-whee-WHEE-WHEE-whee-whee-whee'. It also produces various churring and chattering notes.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeEndemic to the Atlantic Forest biome, found in southeastern Brazil, eastern Paraguay, and northeastern Argentina.
Identifying FeaturesLarge size for an antshrike, Heavy, hooked bill, Black and white spotted upperparts, Rufous-yellow flanks, Barred tail
Description
The Spot-backed Antshrike is a large antbird characterized by its striking spotted plumage. It typically forages actively in the mid-story and canopy of humid forests, often in pairs, searching for insects among dense foliage.
