The buff-fronted foliage-gleaner is a species of bird in the Furnariinae subfamily of the ovenbird family Furnariidae. It is found in Argentina, Bolivia, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Panama, Peru, and Venezuela.
Region
Central America and northern Andes to southeastern South America
Typical Environment
Primarily inhabits humid evergreen forests, foothill and montane forests, and mature secondary growth. It favors areas with abundant vine tangles, epiphytes, and dead leaf clusters, including along ravines and forest edges. In the Andes it is regular in cloud forest and adjacent secondary forest, while in the Atlantic Forest it uses interior and edge habitats. Often occurs from the understory to mid-canopy and will forage in bamboo thickets where present.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 2500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This active ovenbird often joins mixed-species flocks, where it works methodically through foliage and dead leaf clusters for hidden insects. Like many furnariids, it uses its somewhat stiff tail as a prop while clambering along branches and vine tangles. Subspecies vary noticeably across its wide range, with disjunct populations from Central America to the Atlantic Forest. Its presence is a good indicator of intact, structurally complex forest.
Temperament
active and methodical, often skulking
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats between perches
Social Behavior
Usually found singly or in pairs, frequently accompanying mixed-species flocks led by antwrens or tanagers. Forages by gleaning, probing, and prying at leaf clusters, epiphytes, and bark crevices. Nests are typically placed in cavities or tunnels in earthen banks or rotting wood, with both sexes participating in care.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a fast, accelerating series of sharp, buzzy notes that may end in a short rattle. Calls include crisp chips and dry trills given while foraging and when keeping contact with a mate.
