The black bushbird is a species of bird in subfamily Thamnophilinae of family Thamnophilidae, the "typical antbirds". It is found in Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru.
Region
Western Amazon Basin
Typical Environment
Occurs in lowland humid forests of western Amazonia in Brazil (western Amazonas and Acre), southeastern Colombia, eastern Ecuador, and northeastern Peru. It favors dense understory along forest edges, secondary growth, riverine thickets, and bamboo (Guadua) stands. The species keeps to shadowy, tangled vegetation and often remains within a few meters of the ground. It is generally local but can be fairly common where suitable bamboo or vine tangles are extensive.
Altitude Range
0–900 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The black bushbird is a shy understory antbird that often keeps to dense thickets and bamboo tangles, making it more often heard than seen. It sometimes attends army-ant swarms to snatch flushed insects but also forages independently by gleaning from leaves and twigs. Pairs keep close contact with soft calls and are thought to be monogamous. Habitat loss in parts of the western Amazon may be affecting local numbers, though the species remains widespread.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually found singly or in pairs in dense understory. Pairs maintain contact with soft calls and defend small territories. Nests are presumed to be low, cup-like structures placed in shrubs or vine tangles, as in many antbirds.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a simple series of clear, slightly descending whistles delivered from concealed perches. Calls include soft tchps and sharp notes used for contact and alarm.
