The Alagoas antwren is a Critically Endangered species of bird in subfamily Thamnophilinae of family Thamnophilidae, the "typical antbirds". It is endemic to Brazil.
Region
Northeastern Brazil (Atlantic Forest of Alagoas and Pernambuco)
Typical Environment
Historically confined to humid evergreen Atlantic Forest fragments, especially the Murici Ecological Station and nearby patches. It prefers dense understory with tangles, viney thickets, and bamboo, often near small streams. The species tolerates little disturbance and is rarely found far from mature or well-regenerated forest. Past records suggest use of secondary forest when structure is sufficiently dense, but extensive deforestation has eliminated much of this habitat.
Altitude Range
100–700 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This tiny antbird is restricted to a few remnants of Atlantic Forest in northeastern Brazil and is considered Critically Endangered, possibly already extinct in the wild due to severe habitat loss. It forages quietly in the dim understory, often accompanying mixed-species flocks. The species name honors the ornithologist David Snow. Conservation efforts focus on protecting and restoring the last forest fragments in Alagoas and neighboring Pernambuco.
Temperament
secretive and skulking
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Typically seen in pairs or small family groups, often joining mixed-species understory flocks. Nests are small, cup-shaped structures placed low in dense vegetation. Territory defense is quiet but persistent, with soft contact calls between mates.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
The song is a soft, high-pitched series of thin notes delivered from cover, sometimes accelerating slightly. Calls include sharp chips and whispery trills used for contact within pairs.
Plumage
Small antwren with short tail and neat, compact plumage suited to the understory; males are mostly dusky to grey with contrasting pale wing bars, females warmer brown above with buffy underparts and paler throat.
Diet
Feeds mainly on small arthropods such as insects and spiders gleaned from leaves, twigs, and vine tangles. It often hangs or creeps along slender stems to probe into curled leaves and clusters. Occasional short sallies are used to pick prey flushed from foliage. It may accompany mixed flocks to exploit disturbed prey but is not known as a regular army-ant follower.
Preferred Environment
Forages in the shaded understory from near ground level up to a few meters, especially in dense, humid patches with vines and bamboo. Edges and open areas are generally avoided.
