Harlequin antbird

The harlequin antbird is a species of bird in subfamily Thamnophilinae of family Thamnophilidae, the "typical antbirds". It is endemic to Brazil.

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Distribution

Region

Amazon Basin

Typical Environment

Occurs in lowland terra firme rainforest of the central Brazilian Amazon, favoring mature, undisturbed forest with dense understory. It keeps close to the forest floor and mid-understory, tracking columns of army ants through shadowy gullies and ridges. It avoids open edges and heavily degraded habitats. Protected forest tracts and continuous canopy are important for its persistence.

Altitude Range

Sea level to 600 m

Climate Zone

Tropical

Characteristics

Size13–15 cm

Wing Span18–22 cm

Male Weight0.028 kg

Female Weight0.026 kg

Life Expectancy7 years

Ease of Keeping

Beginner friendly: 1/5

Useful to know

The harlequin antbird is an obligate army-ant follower, snatching insects and other arthropods that fleeing swarms flush from the leaf litter. Males and females look markedly different, giving rise to the 'harlequin' name due to the male’s striking patterning. It keeps to dense understory, making it more often heard than seen. Habitat loss in the Brazilian Amazon is its primary threat.

Gallery

Behaviour

Temperament

secretive and territorial

Flight Pattern

short rapid wingbeats

Social Behavior

Usually found in pairs or small family groups within a home range, closely attending army-ant swarms. Pairs maintain territories and communicate with duet-like calls. Nesting is thought to be a simple cup placed low in dense vegetation, with biparental care typical of antbirds.

Migratory Pattern

Resident

Song Description

A series of sharp, piping whistles that accelerate slightly, often delivered as a duet. It also gives dry scolds and chatter around ant swarms.

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Identification

Comb Type

Plumage Description

Feather Color

Leg Color

Earlobe Color

Eye Color

Feeding Habits

Diet

Preferred Environment

Requires Supplement

Population

Conservation Status

Species Status

Wild Population

Total Known Population

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