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Overview
Ornate stipplethroat

Ornate stipplethroat

Wikipedia

The ornate stipplethroat, formerly called the ornate antwren, is a species of bird in subfamily Thamnophilinae of family Thamnophilidae, the "typical antbirds". It is found in Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru.

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Distribution

Region

Western and southwestern Amazon Basin

Typical Environment

Found in lowland and foothill rainforests of Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, and western Brazil. It favors terra firme and foothill evergreen forests with abundant vine tangles and dead-leaf clusters. Commonly occupies the lower to mid understory, including forest edges and bamboo thickets. It is generally absent from heavily degraded habitats but can persist in selectively logged forests with intact understory structure.

Altitude Range

100–1400 m

Climate Zone

Tropical

Characteristics

Size9–11 cm
Wing Span15–18 cm
Male Weight0.008 kg
Female Weight0.007 kg
Life Expectancy6 years

Ease of Keeping

Beginner friendly: 1/5

Useful to know

Also known historically as the ornate antwren, this tiny antbird specializes in gleaning insects from curled dead leaves in the forest understory. It often forages in pairs and regularly joins mixed-species flocks. Males and females look markedly different, with males showing a speckled throat and females rich rufous tones. Its song is a thin, high-pitched series of notes that can be hard to locate in dense foliage.

Gallery

Bird photo
Bird photo
Bird photo
Wildsumaco Lodge - Ecuador

Wildsumaco Lodge - Ecuador

Bird photo

Behaviour

Temperament

secretive but active

Flight Pattern

short rapid wingbeats between low perches

Social Behavior

Typically found in pairs or small family groups and frequently joins mixed-species understory flocks. Both sexes participate in nesting and territory defense. Nests are small, suspended or cup-like structures placed low in dense vegetation.

Migratory Pattern

Resident

Song Description

A thin, high-pitched series of rapid notes and short trills, often delivered from concealed perches. Calls include soft chips and whispers that blend into mixed-flock chatter.

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