The creamy-bellied gnatcatcher is a species of bird in the family Polioptilidae. It is found in Argentina, Brazil, and Paraguay.
Region
Atlantic Forest of southeastern South America
Typical Environment
Occurs in the Atlantic Forest and associated semi-deciduous woodlands of southeastern Brazil, eastern Paraguay, and northeastern Argentina (e.g., Misiones). Prefers forest edges, secondary growth, riparian thickets, and vine-rich understory, but also enters more mature forest midstory. Readily uses regenerating habitats and fragments, though it is sensitive to heavy degradation. Often accompanies mixed-species foraging flocks through the understory and lower midstory.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1200 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A tiny, hyperactive insect-hunter of the Atlantic Forest, it often joins mixed-species flocks and forages by gleaning among leaves and twigs. Its long black-and-white tail and warm creamy underparts make it distinctive in shadowy understory. Habitat loss and fragmentation of the Atlantic Forest are its primary threats. It builds a small, neat cup nest bound with spider silk and camouflaged with lichens.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually seen in pairs or small family groups and frequently joins mixed-species flocks while foraging. During breeding, pairs defend small territories and cooperate in nest building. The nest is a tiny cup placed on a horizontal fork, often decorated with lichens and bound with spider silk.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
High, thin, sibilant phrases interspersed with rapid trills and buzzy notes. Calls include sharp chips and scolds while foraging, often delivered in quick sequences.
Plumage
Smooth gray to bluish-gray upperparts with a contrasting creamy to buffy belly and vent; wings plain; long tail strongly patterned black with white outer feathers.
Diet
Feeds mainly on small arthropods such as insects and spiders. Gleans prey from leaves, twigs, and vine tangles and occasionally hover-gleans or makes short sallies to snatch prey. Often forages methodically along branches, flicking its tail and moving quickly through the foliage.
Preferred Environment
Understory to lower midstory of forest edges, second growth, and riparian thickets. Frequently forages within mixed-species flocks where it exploits disturbed and semi-open microhabitats.
