The black-spotted bare-eye is a species of insectivore passerine bird in subfamily Thamnophilinae of family Thamnophilidae, the "typical antbirds". It is found in Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru.
Region
Amazon Basin of South America
Typical Environment
Occurs in lowland primary and mature secondary rainforest across Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru. It favors dense, shaded understory, especially near army ant swarms, and uses both terra firme and seasonally flooded (várzea) forests. Most activity is within 0–3 m of the ground, often along stream margins and in thickets. It is typically absent from heavily degraded or open habitats.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A specialist ant-following bird, it forages at the front of army ant swarms to snatch insects and other arthropods that flee the ants. Its name refers to the conspicuous bare skin around the eye, which may aid in heat dissipation and prevents feathers from fouling during close-to-ground foraging. It is typically quiet and secretive, moving low in dense rainforest understory. Pairs often remain within a territory year-round.
Temperament
secretive and methodical
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats, low and direct
Social Behavior
Usually found in pairs or small family groups, closely attending army ant swarms rather than joining mixed-species flocks. Territorial pairs maintain year-round home ranges centered on reliable foraging areas. Nests are placed low, typically a cup hidden in dense vegetation, with both sexes sharing parental duties.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A series of mellow whistles and soft notes delivered from low perches, often spaced and subdued. Calls include quiet chips and churring notes given while following ant swarms.
