The lined antshrike is a species of bird in subfamily Thamnophilinae of family Thamnophilidae, the "typical antbirds". It is found in Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru.
Region
Northern Andes (eastern Andean foothills of Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru)
Typical Environment
Occurs along the humid foothills and lower slopes on the eastern side of the Andes, favoring dense second growth, forest edges, vine tangles, and bamboo thickets. It keeps to the understory and midstory, often near ravines and along streams. The species is patchy but can be locally common where suitable habitat persists. It uses both primary and well-structured secondary forests and tolerates some disturbance if cover remains dense.
Altitude Range
300–1600 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The lined antshrike is a secretive understory bird of humid Andean foothill forests, where it is usually found in pairs. Males and females look strikingly different, and pairs often perform antiphonal duets to maintain territory. It primarily gleans insects from dense tangles and occasionally attends army-ant swarms, but it is not an obligate ant follower.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually found in territorial pairs within dense cover. Pairs maintain contact with soft calls and perform antiphonal duets, especially at dawn. Nests are typically small cups placed low in dense vegetation; clutch size is usually two.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
The male gives a series of clear, whistled notes that accelerate slightly, while the female answers with a contrasting phrase. Calls include sharp chips and scolding rattles when alarmed.
