The grey-naped antpitta is a species of bird in the family Grallariidae. It is endemic to Venezuela.
Region
Northern South America (Venezuela)
Typical Environment
Occurs in humid montane cloud forests and mossy evergreen forests within the Venezuelan Coastal Range and adjacent ranges. Favors dense understory with thick leaf litter, bamboo or vine tangles, and shaded ravines near streams. Typically avoids open areas and is seldom seen at forest edges. It forages on the forest floor beneath a closed canopy and may use natural gullies and trails. Habitat quality and continuity are important for its presence.
Altitude Range
900–2400 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The grey-naped antpitta is a shy, ground-dwelling bird that is far more often heard than seen, delivering mellow, ventriloquial whistles from dense understory. It hops rather than flies for most movements, probing leaf litter for prey. Like many antpittas, it relies on intact montane forest and is sensitive to disturbance. Patient listening at dawn or dusk is often the best way to detect it.
Temperament
solitary and secretive
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats, low to the ground
Social Behavior
Usually found alone or in pairs, maintaining territories in dense understory. Nests are placed low, often near the ground in banks or dense vegetation, with small clutches. Both parents likely participate in care. It spends most of its time hopping on the forest floor rather than flying.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A series of mellow, hollow whistles delivered at measured intervals, often giving a ventriloquial impression. Most vocal at dawn and dusk, the song carries through cloud forest and can be hard to localize.
