The Iquitos gnatcatcher is a bird in the family Polioptilidae. It was first described in 2005. It is known only from the Allpahuayo-Mishana National Reserve, west of Iquitos, Peru.
Region
Northern Peruvian Amazon (Loreto)
Typical Environment
Confined to white-sand (varillal) forests west of Iquitos, especially within the Allpahuayo-Mishana National Reserve. It favors low-stature, nutrient-poor forest with a patchy canopy and dense, scrubby understory. Birds forage from the understory to mid-canopy, often along forest edges and in natural gaps. The habitat occurs as small, scattered patches embedded within taller terra firme forest, increasing vulnerability to fragmentation.
Altitude Range
80–200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Described to science in 2005, the Iquitos gnatcatcher is restricted to a tiny area of white‑sand (varillal) forest near Iquitos, Peru. It often joins mixed-species flocks and actively flicks and fans its tail while foraging. The species is highly sensitive to habitat disturbance, with fire and development posing major threats. Its extremely small range makes it one of Peru’s most range-restricted birds.
Temperament
active and alert
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats between perches
Social Behavior
Typically found in pairs or small family groups and frequently joins mixed-species foraging flocks. Likely maintains small territories within suitable habitat patches. Nesting is presumed to involve a small cup nest placed low to midstory, as in related gnatcatchers, but detailed breeding biology remains poorly documented.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Gives high, thin, sibilant notes and short trills, often delivered in quick series during foraging. Also produces soft scolding calls when agitated.
