Squamate Antbird
NameSquamate Antbird
Common NameSquamate Antbird
Scientific NameMyrmelastes squamosus
FamilyThamnophilidae
Wingspan (cm)22
Length (cm)14.5
Weight (g)22.5
Plumage DetailsMales have dark brown crown and upperparts, with olive-brown underparts. The most striking feature is the black wings adorned with two prominent rows of white spots, giving a scaled pattern. The face is dark with a pale eye-ring. Females are similar but may be slightly duller.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalization is typically a series of clear, whistled notes, often accelerating and rising in pitch, described as a 'whistled pew-pew-pew-pew-pew-pew-pew'.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeEndemic to southeastern Brazil, found from Bahia south to Santa Catarina.
Identifying FeaturesBlack wings with white spots, Brown upperparts and olive-brown underparts, Dark face with pale eye-ring, Short tail, Ground-dwelling in forest understory
Description
This medium-sized antbird is characterized by its distinctive scaled appearance on its wings. It typically forages in the dense understory of humid lowland forests, primarily feeding on insects and other small invertebrates.
