Bertoni's antbird is a species of bird in subfamily Thamnophilinae of family Thamnophilidae, the "typical antbirds". It is found in Argentina, Brazil, and Paraguay.
Region
Atlantic Forest of southeastern South America
Typical Environment
Occurs in the humid Atlantic Forests of southeastern Brazil, eastern Paraguay, and northeastern Argentina (Misiones). Prefers dense understory, especially bamboo (Chusquea) thickets, forest edges, and steep ravines. It uses both primary and well-regenerated secondary forest, provided there is thick lower vegetation. Birds are typically low to mid-understory, keeping close to cover. They may be locally common where bamboo is abundant.
Altitude Range
200–1600 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Bertoni's antbird is a skulking understory specialist of the Atlantic Forest, often closely associated with dense bamboo thickets. It typically forages in pairs and may join mixed-species flocks but is not an obligate follower of army ants. The species’ name honors the naturalist Bertoni and reflects its subtle but distinctive rufous-necked appearance. Habitat loss in the Atlantic Forest remains its primary long-term threat.
Temperament
secretive and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats, low and direct between cover
Social Behavior
Typically seen in pairs or small family groups within well-defined territories. Often joins mixed-species understory flocks but keeps to dense cover. Nests are usually placed low in vegetation, with both parents involved in care. Courtship includes duet-like vocal exchanges and close-following displays.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a clear, rapid series of high-pitched notes that may accelerate slightly, carrying well through bamboo. Calls include sharp chips and scolds given from concealed perches. Duets between pair members are common.
Plumage
Compact antbird with contrasting streaked patterning; males show crisp dark-and-pale streaks and a warm rufous collar, females are browner with buffier underparts and softer streaking.
Diet
Feeds mainly on insects and other arthropods, including beetles, ants, caterpillars, and spiders. Gleans prey from bamboo culms, leaf clusters, and tangled understory stems. Occasionally sallies short distances to snatch disturbed prey and may forage near, but not strictly with, ant swarms. Rarely takes small fruits.
Preferred Environment
Dense bamboo and vine-choked understory in humid forest, especially along slopes, ravines, and stream edges. Foraging is concentrated within 0–3 m above ground where cover is thickest.
