The pectoral antwren is a Vulnerable species of bird in subfamily Thamnophilinae of family Thamnophilidae, the "typical antbirds". It is endemic to Brazil.
Region
Northeastern Brazil
Typical Environment
Primarily inhabits semi-arid caatinga landscapes with dense thorn scrub, dry deciduous woodland, and vine tangles. It favors shrubby edges, secondary growth, and riparian thickets where cover is abundant. Birds move through mid to upper shrub layers, frequently using tangles for foraging and nesting. Occurs in fragmented patches due to ongoing land conversion, which restricts its range and dispersal.
Altitude Range
0–700 m
Climate Zone
Arid
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The pectoral antwren is a small, active antbird of Brazil’s northeast, where it forages restlessly through thorny scrub. Males show distinctive black chest patches that give the species its name, while females are duller and warmer-toned. It often travels in pairs and may join mixed-species flocks. Habitat loss and fragmentation in the caatinga region are the main threats to this Vulnerable species.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Typically seen in pairs or small family groups, maintaining territories within dense scrub. Frequently accompanies mixed-species foraging flocks, especially in more wooded patches. Nests are small, cup-like structures placed low to mid-height in dense vegetation.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a quick, high-pitched series of thin notes that accelerates slightly. Calls include sharp chips and brief trills used for contact between pair members.
Plumage
Fine, neat plumage with gray to gray-brown upperparts and paler underparts; wings show contrasting white wingbars. Male has distinct black facial markings and black pectoral patches; female is warmer brown with a buffy face and lacks bold black on the chest.
Diet
Feeds mainly on small insects and other arthropods, gleaning from leaves and twigs and occasionally making short sallies to snatch prey. It often probes into curled leaves and vine tangles where insects hide. Foraging is rapid and methodical, with frequent short hops and wing flicks. It may benefit from the alarm cues and movement of other species in mixed flocks.
Preferred Environment
Dense thorn scrub, secondary growth, and edges of dry woodland and riparian thickets. Usually forages in the mid-shrub layer but will move to lower strata in thicker cover.
