The cocha antshrike is a Near Threatened species of bird in subfamily Thamnophilinae of family Thamnophilidae, the "typical antbirds". It is found in Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru.
Region
Western Amazon Basin
Typical Environment
Occurs patchily along major white-water rivers in eastern Colombia, eastern Ecuador, and northern Peru. It favors young river islands, edges of oxbow lakes (“cochas”), and seasonally flooded várzea with dense cane (Gynerium), Tessaria, and Cecropia scrub. The species avoids mature terra firme forest and relies on disturbance-created early growth. Its presence shifts as river channels change and new islands form, leading to a dynamic, mosaic distribution.
Altitude Range
100–400 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The cocha antshrike is a river-island specialist that thrives in early-successional thickets along white-water Amazonian rivers. Its dependence on constantly renewing island scrub makes it patchy and vulnerable when river dynamics are altered. Pairs often duet, and the species can be surprisingly localized even within seemingly suitable habitat.
Temperament
secretive and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats low through dense cover
Social Behavior
Typically found singly or in pairs that maintain small territories within river-edge thickets. Pairs often keep contact with soft calls and may perform antiphonal duets. Nests are likely small cups placed low in dense vegetation; both sexes participate in care. It may occasionally join mixed-species flocks along river margins but spends much time foraging independently.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a series of clear, sharp whistles delivered in a steady or slightly accelerating cadence, often ending abruptly. Calls include dry ticks and scolds given from cover. Vocalizations carry well through cane and scrub, aiding pair contact in dense habitats.
