The silvery-flanked antwren is an insectivorous bird in subfamily Thamnophilinae of family Thamnophilidae, the "typical antbirds". It is endemic to Brazil.
Region
Northeastern Atlantic Forest, Brazil
Typical Environment
Occurs patchily in remnant lowland and foothill Atlantic Forest of northeastern Brazil, particularly in and around Pernambuco and adjacent states. It favors dense, humid understory of primary and mature secondary forest, as well as vine tangles and bamboo thickets along forest edges. The species avoids open habitats and persists best in larger forest fragments. It may also utilize restinga and gallery forest where suitable cover remains.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 700 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This tiny antwren creeps through dense understory, gleaning insects from leaves and twigs and often joining mixed-species flocks. Males show distinctive silvery-gray flanks that flash as they flick their wings while foraging. It is not an obligate ant-follower, though it may forage near small ant swarms. Ongoing loss of Atlantic Forest fragments is its main threat.
Temperament
furtive and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually found in pairs or small family groups that keep low in the understory. Frequently joins mixed-species flocks, moving quickly through vine tangles and bamboo. Nests are small cups placed low, and pairs are presumed monogamous with shared care of young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A series of thin, high-pitched see notes that accelerate into a light trill. Calls include sharp tsip contact notes given while moving through dense cover.
