Tufted Antshrike
NameTufted Antshrike
Common NameTufted Antshrike
Scientific NameMackenziaena severa
FamilyThamnophilidae
Wingspan (cm)28
Length (cm)20.5
Weight (g)45
Plumage DetailsMales have a prominent rufous-chestnut crest, a blackish face with fine pale streaking, and the rest of the body is heavily barred with black and buffy-ochre. The bill is bright blue-grey, and the legs are bright blue. Females are similar but may have a slightly duller crest and more rufous tones in their barring.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalization is a distinctive series of loud, ringing 'chew-chew-chew' notes, which often accelerate and descend slightly in pitch.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in southeastern Brazil (from Espírito Santo south to Rio Grande do Sul), eastern Paraguay, and northeastern Argentina (Misiones province).
Identifying FeaturesProminent rufous crest, Heavily barred black and buffy plumage, Bright blue bill, Bright blue legs
Description
The Tufted Antshrike is a medium-sized antbird characterized by its striking rufous crest and heavily barred plumage. It typically forages in the understory and mid-story of humid forests, often near bamboo thickets, searching for insects and other arthropods.
