The ferruginous-backed antbird is a species of passerine bird in subfamily Thamnophilinae of family Thamnophilidae, the "typical antbirds". It is found in Brazil, French Guyana, Guyana, Suriname, and Venezuela.
Region
Guiana Shield and northern Amazonia
Typical Environment
Occurs in lowland evergreen rainforest across the Guianas (Guyana, Suriname, French Guiana), adjacent southeastern Venezuela, and northern Brazil (including Amapá and northern Pará). It favors dense, humid terra firme forest with thick vine tangles, bamboo patches, and understory thickets. Most activity is within 1–3 m of the ground along shaded trails, stream edges, and fallen logs. It is generally absent from heavily disturbed habitats and large clearings. Local presence depends on intact understory structure.
Altitude Range
0–600 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This skulking understory antbird is named for the rich rust-colored back of the male, which contrasts sharply with his dark head and underparts. It inhabits dense lowland rainforest of the Guiana Shield and adjacent northern Amazonia and is typically encountered as territorial pairs close to the ground. Though not an obligate ant-follower, it will sometimes forage near army-ant swarms to snatch flushed arthropods.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats, low to the ground
Social Behavior
Typically encountered as monogamous pairs that maintain and defend year-round territories in dense understory. Nests are placed low in vegetation or near the ground, and both parents participate in care. Birds move deliberately through thickets, often pausing to cock the tail and listen before pouncing on prey.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a clear, whistled series that may rise and then fall, delivered from low perches within dense cover. Pairs sometimes perform antiphonal duets, with the female’s softer notes interleaving the male’s phrases. Calls include sharp chips and dry notes used in contact and alarm.
