The sooty antbird 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 Amazon Basin and Andean foothills
Typical Environment
Occurs in lowland and foothill rainforests of Bolivia, Brazil (western Amazon), Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru. Prefers dense, shaded understory of primary terra firme and várzea forest, bamboo thickets, and vine tangles. Often found along streams, on slopes, and in areas with abundant leaf litter. Frequently attends army-ant swarms, moving just above the ground layer.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The sooty antbird is a skulking understory species that often follows army ant swarms to snatch flushed insects. Males are uniformly sooty-black while females are rufous-brown, making the pair easy to sex in the field. They typically occur in pairs that duet, and both parents help raise the young. Though widespread in western Amazonia, they are highly sensitive to forest disturbance.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats, low and direct
Social Behavior
Usually found in pairs that maintain and defend territories year-round. Pairs engage in antiphonal duetting and keep close contact while moving through dense cover. Nests are typically low, with both sexes participating in incubation and chick rearing.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a series of mellow, descending whistles delivered at a measured pace, often as a duet between pair members. Calls include sharp chips and harsher scolds near ant swarms or when alarmed.
