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Overview
Great antpitta

Great antpitta

Wikipedia

The great antpitta is a Near Threatened species of bird in the family Grallariidae. It is endemic to Venezuela.

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Distribution

Region

Northern Venezuela (Coastal Range)

Typical Environment

Found in humid montane and cloud forests with dense understory, often near ravines, stream gullies, and mossy slopes. It favors areas with thick leaf litter and bamboo or vine tangles where it can forage on the ground under cover. It may use secondary forest if the understory remains intact. Its range is patchy and tied to continuous tracts of mature forest.

Altitude Range

800–2200 m

Climate Zone

Highland

Characteristics

Size24–26 cm
Wing Span32–36 cm
Male Weight0.19 kg
Female Weight0.18 kg
Life Expectancy8 years

Ease of Keeping

Beginner friendly: 1/5

Useful to know

The great antpitta is a shy, ground-dwelling bird that inhabits dense montane cloud forests of Venezuela’s Coastal Range. It is typically detected by its rich, mournful whistles rather than by sight. Habitat loss from deforestation and fragmentation threatens its restricted range. It spends much of its time hopping on the forest floor, flicking leaves to uncover prey.

Behaviour

Temperament

shy and skulking

Flight Pattern

short rapid wingbeats; reluctant flier

Social Behavior

Usually solitary or in pairs, maintaining territories on the forest floor. Nests are typically mossy cups placed low above the ground or on banks, with both parents involved in care. Displays and duets occur at dawn when pairs advertise territory.

Migratory Pattern

Resident

Song Description

Voice is a series of rich, mournful whistles, often delivered as spaced, resonant notes that carry through the forest. Songs are most frequent at dawn and dusk and may include soft contact calls while foraging.

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