The cryptic antthrush, also known as Such's antthrush, is a species of bird in the family Formicariidae. It is endemic to the Atlantic Forest in southeastern Brazil.
Region
Atlantic Forest, Southeastern Brazil
Typical Environment
Occurs in humid primary and mature secondary forest within the Atlantic Forest biome, favoring deep leaf-litter and shaded ravines. It keeps to dense understory with tangles, palms, and bamboo, and avoids open or heavily fragmented patches. Most activity is on or near the forest floor where it runs between cover. Presence is often detected by its song rather than by sight.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1600 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Also called Such’s antthrush, this elusive ground-dweller is confined to Brazil’s Atlantic Forest. Its name “cryptic” reflects how similar it looks to related antthrushes; voice and subtle plumage differences are key to identification. It spends most of its time in dense understory, more often running than flying. Habitat loss in the Atlantic Forest remains its main long-term threat.
Temperament
secretive and skulking
Flight Pattern
mostly runs; short rapid wingbeats for brief, low flights
Social Behavior
Typically solitary or in pairs within well-defined territories. Nests are placed low, often near the ground in dense cover; both parents likely participate in care. Courtship and territory are maintained primarily through song from concealed perches or the forest floor.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A series of clear, ringing whistles delivered at measured pace, often slightly descending. Calls are simple, penetrating notes that carry far through dense forest and are the best cue to its presence.
