The Chami antpitta is a species of bird in the family Grallariidae. It is endemic to Colombia.
Region
Northern Andes (Colombia)
Typical Environment
This species inhabits humid montane cloud forests on the Western Andes of Colombia, especially in areas with dense understory. It is closely associated with Chusquea bamboo, moss-laden gullies, and shaded, wet forest floors. Birds keep to interior forest and edges of undisturbed or lightly disturbed habitat, often along steep slopes and streamside ravines. They typically occur in territories with thick cover and ample leaf litter for foraging.
Altitude Range
1600–2600 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Described only recently from the Rufous Antpitta complex, the Chami antpitta is named for the Embera-Chamí people of Colombia’s Western Andes. It is a secretive, ground-dwelling bird that is far more often heard than seen, with a clear, mournful whistle carrying through cloud forest understory. It favors dense Chusquea bamboo and mossy ravines and may step quietly along the forest floor like a small mammal. Habitat loss in montane forests makes understanding its distribution and status especially important.
Temperament
shy and skulking
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats, low and reluctant flier
Social Behavior
Typically solitary or in pairs, maintaining territories in dense understory. Nests are placed low, often in banks or dense vegetation, with both adults sharing care. Courtship and territoriality are expressed primarily through song rather than display.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A clear, mournful, whistled note or brief series delivered at intervals, often at dawn or after rain. The tone is pure and penetrating, carrying well through dense forest understory.
