The plain-winged antshrike, sometimes called the black-capped antshrike, is a species of bird in subfamily Thamnophilinae of family Thamnophilidae, the "typical antbirds". It is found in Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru.
Region
Western and central Amazon Basin
Typical Environment
Occurs in lowland humid rainforest across parts of Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru. It favors dense understory of terra firme forest but also uses seasonally flooded várzea and igapó, river-edge thickets, and mature secondary growth. Most activity is within the lower to mid understory, where it forages from near ground level up to several meters. It avoids open habitats and high montane forests, remaining tied to contiguous woodland.
Altitude Range
0–1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Also known as the black-capped antshrike in some sources, this species is an understory specialist of the western and central Amazon. The name "plain-winged" refers to the absence of contrasting wing bars or spots seen in many related antshrikes. Pairs often duet, and their voices are a key tool for identification in dense forest. It occasionally joins mixed-species flocks and will opportunistically attend army-ant swarms but is not an obligate follower.
Temperament
secretive and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats; low, direct flights between understory perches
Social Behavior
Typically encountered in pairs that maintain year-round territories in dense understory. Pairs often duet, especially at dawn, and may accompany mixed-species flocks while foraging. Nest is a small cup placed low in shrubs or saplings; both sexes participate in incubation and care.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A series of clear, accelerating whistles that may descend slightly, often given as coordinated duets between the pair. Calls include sharp, dry chacks and scolds from dense cover.
