The slaty-winged foliage-gleaner is a species of bird in the Furnariinae subfamily of the ovenbird family Furnariidae. It is found in Colombia, Ecuador, and Panama.
Region
Chocó–Darién and West Andean foothills
Typical Environment
Occurs from eastern Panama through the Chocó of western Colombia into northwestern Ecuador. Prefers tall, humid evergreen forest and mature second growth, especially along shaded streams, ravines, and in dense vine or bamboo thickets. Most frequently in the lower to middle understory, occasionally ascending to the midstory while following mixed flocks. It tolerates some disturbance but is most numerous in extensive tracts of primary forest.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A secretive understory specialist of humid lowland and foothill forests, the slaty-winged foliage-gleaner often joins mixed-species flocks. It forages by prying and probing clusters of dead leaves, vine tangles, and bromeliads to extract hidden arthropods. Its dark, slate-colored flight feathers contrast with warmer brown body tones, making it distinctive at close range. It nests in burrows tunneled into earthen banks, typical of many ovenbirds.
Slaty-winged foliage-gleaner
Temperament
shy and skulking
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually forages singly or in pairs and regularly joins mixed-species understory flocks. Nests in burrows excavated in earthen banks or steep slopes, lined with plant fibers. Both sexes likely participate in nest excavation and care.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Gives a series of dry, accelerating notes that culminate in a short rattle. Also utters sharp chips and churrs while foraging within dense cover.
Plumage
Warm brown to rufescent-brown upperparts with distinctly slaty-gray flight feathers and a slightly rufescent tail; underparts dull olive-brown to buffy-brown with subtle mottling on the throat.
Diet
Primarily consumes arthropods such as insects and spiders gleaned from dead leaves, suspended leaf clusters, and vine tangles. Probes into bromeliads and among palm fronds, prying and tearing to expose concealed prey. Occasionally hawks short distances to snatch disturbed insects and may attend army-ant swarms opportunistically.
Preferred Environment
Feeds in the lower to middle understory of humid forest, especially along shady ravines, stream edges, and in dense secondary growth. Frequently works within vine tangles, bamboo thickets, and epiphyte-laden branches.
