The grey antwren is a species of bird in subfamily Thamnophilinae of family Thamnophilidae, the "typical antbirds". It is found in Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, French Guiana, Guyana, Peru, Suriname, and Venezuela.
Region
Amazon Basin
Typical Environment
Occurs widely in lowland humid evergreen forest across the Amazon of Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, French Guiana, Guyana, Peru, Suriname, and Venezuela. Favors interior and edge of terra firme forest, as well as várzea and river-edge woodlands with dense vine tangles. Frequently uses secondary forest, bamboo thickets, and overgrown clearings when structure is suitable. Usually forages in the understory to midstory, often following mixed-species flocks along forest strata.
Altitude Range
0–1000 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A tiny antbird of the Amazon, the grey antwren often travels with mixed-species flocks, where its constant motion helps it find hidden insects. It is not an obligate ant-follower but will occasionally exploit prey flushed by army ants. Males and females look strikingly different, aiding quick field identification. Habitat loss in parts of the Amazon may affect local numbers, though the species remains widespread.
At Sani Lodge, Ecuador (flash photo)
Temperament
active and somewhat shy
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Typically found in pairs or small family groups and very often joins mixed-species foraging flocks. Pairs maintain territories and communicate with high, thin calls while moving through dense foliage. The nest is a small, delicate cup placed low to mid-height in shrubs or vine tangles, and both parents tend young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a thin, high-pitched series of short notes that accelerates slightly, often delivered from concealed perches. Calls are sharp, sibilant tsip notes used to keep contact within flocks and between mates.
