The East Andean antbird is a species of bird in subfamily Thamnophilinae of family Thamnophilidae, the "typical antbirds". It is endemic to Colombia.
Region
Northern Andes
Typical Environment
Found in humid montane forests of Colombia’s Eastern and Central Andes, favoring dense understory, vine tangles, and bamboo (especially Chusquea). It keeps near forest edges, ravines, and secondary growth with thick cover, but also occurs in mature cloud forest understory. The species typically forages within a meter or two of the ground, moving methodically through shaded thickets. It may join mixed-species flocks but is most often encountered as pairs.
Altitude Range
900–2600 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The East Andean antbird is a shy understory specialist of Colombia’s Eastern and Central Andes, often keeping to dense thickets and bamboo where it forages close to the ground. It is part of the typical antbird family and may occasionally attend army ant swarms, though it is not an obligate follower. Pairs are territorial year-round and communicate with distinctive whistled songs. Its long, graduated tail and subtle streaking help distinguish it from other montane antbirds.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually found as pairs maintaining small territories in dense understory. May loosely associate with mixed-species flocks while foraging but keeps to cover. Nests are typically low, cup-shaped structures placed in shrubs or bamboo, with both parents investing in care. Breeding is presumed monogamous.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a series of clear, whistled notes that accelerate into a short trill, carrying well through the understory. Calls include sharp chips and soft scolds given between pair members. Vocalizations are useful for detection due to the species’ secretive habits.
