The Rio Branco antbird is a Critically Endangered bird species in subfamily Thamnophilinae of family Thamnophilidae, the "typical antbirds". It is found in Brazil and Guyana.
Region
Northern Amazonia (Rio Branco–Takutu basins of Brazil and adjacent Guyana)
Typical Environment
Occurs patchily along the Rio Branco and its tributaries in northern Brazil, spilling into adjacent parts of southwestern Guyana. It favors dense river-edge thickets, secondary riparian scrub, and gallery forest understory, often on sandy or seasonally flooded substrates. The species uses vine tangles, young regenerating growth, and edges of savanna–forest ecotones. It is generally absent from tall, closed-canopy terra firme forest away from waterways.
Altitude Range
0–300 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A highly range-restricted antbird, it is tied to dense riparian scrub along the Rio Branco and nearby drainages. Pairs often duet, with male and female giving contrasting notes. It may attend army-ant swarms opportunistically but more often forages independently in low, tangled vegetation. Its tiny range and ongoing habitat loss from fire and agricultural expansion have made it Critically Endangered.
Temperament
secretive and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats close to the ground
Social Behavior
Typically found in pairs that maintain small territories year-round. Pairs engage in antiphonal duets and remain in dense cover while foraging. Nests are placed low in shrubs or tangles near water, with both sexes participating in care.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A clear, whistled series from the male, often accelerating or slightly rising, answered by a harsher rattle or churring notes from the female. Calls include sharp chips and scolds given from cover.
