The black-headed antthrush is a species of bird in the family Formicariidae. It is found in Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, and Panama.
Region
Southern Central America to the Chocó of northwestern South America
Typical Environment
Occurs from the Caribbean and Pacific slopes of Costa Rica through Panama and into western Colombia and northwestern Ecuador (Chocó region). Prefers mature and well-regenerated humid lowland and foothill forests with dense understory. Often near streams, gullies, and buttressed tree bases where leaf litter accumulates. It is generally absent from open areas but may use shady secondary growth adjacent to intact forest.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A secretive, ground-dwelling antthrush of humid forests from Costa Rica to northwestern Ecuador. It forages by walking and flicking aside leaf litter to find arthropods, and it may shadow army-ant swarms to snatch flushed prey. Its mournful, whistled song carries far through dense understory, often revealing birds that are otherwise unseen. Habitat loss is the main local threat, but the species remains widespread.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats, low to the ground; reluctant flier
Social Behavior
Usually encountered singly or in pairs on the forest floor. Pairs maintain territories year-round and communicate with duetted whistles. Nests are placed close to the ground, with both parents attending eggs and young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A clear, mellow series of whistles, often rising or falling slightly and delivered at measured pace. Calls are simple, carrying far through dense understory and repeated from low perches or while standing on the forest floor.
