The collared antshrike is a species of bird in subfamily Thamnophilinae of family Thamnophilidae, the "typical antbirds". It is found in Ecuador and Peru.
Region
Tumbesian region (western Ecuador and northwestern Peru)
Typical Environment
Occurs in tropical dry forests, thorn scrub, and semi-arid woodland, favoring dense understory and vine tangles. It is frequently found along forest edges, riparian thickets, and in second-growth habitats where cover is abundant. Birds typically remain within a few meters of the ground, moving through thickets with short hops and brief flights. The species tolerates some disturbance and can persist in mosaic landscapes with scrub and hedgerows.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 800 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A Tumbesian specialty, the collared antshrike lives in pairs that often duet, with male and female delivering alternating phrases. Its bold neck collar gives the species its name, and the sexes look quite different. It prefers dense, thorny scrub and dry forest edges where it forages low and stays well hidden. Habitat loss in the coastal Ecuador–Peru region is a concern, though the species persists in secondary growth.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually seen in pairs that maintain small territories year-round. Nests are cup-shaped and placed low in dense vegetation. Pairs often engage in antiphonal duets and coordinate movements while foraging through thickets.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a clear, accelerating series of sharp whistles, often delivered as a coordinated duet by the pair. Calls include harsh scolds and ticking notes given from cover.
Plumage
Male is mostly slaty-gray with a conspicuous pale collar and contrasting blackish head and tail, showing two white wing bars; female is warm rufous-brown above with buffy underparts and a paler collar, also showing light wing bars. Both sexes have a sturdy, slightly hooked bill and subtle white edging in the tail. Plumage appears smooth and close-fitting, enhancing its sleek, compact look in dense cover.
Diet
Primarily hunts insects and other arthropods, gleaning them from leaves, twigs, and bark in dense scrub. It occasionally makes short sallies to snatch prey and will hover-glean to pick items from foliage. Small spiders and beetles are common prey; it may take small vertebrates very rarely.
Preferred Environment
Forages low, typically from ground level to about 3 m high in tangled thickets, thorn scrub, and forest edges. It favors areas with dense cover, including secondary growth and riparian vegetation.
