The speckled antshrike or spiny-faced antshrike is a Near Threatened species of bird in subfamily Thamnophilinae of family Thamnophilidae, the "typical antbirds". It is found in Colombia and Panama.
Region
Darién–Chocó region
Typical Environment
Occurs in humid tropical forests of eastern Panama and extreme northwestern Colombia. It favors dense understory and vine tangles in primary and mature secondary rainforest, often along slopes, ravines, and forest edges. The species is largely tied to foothill forests and is highly sensitive to extensive deforestation and fragmentation.
Altitude Range
100–1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Also called the spiny-faced antshrike, it is the sole member of the genus Xenornis. It is a shy understory bird best detected by its soft, patterned song and the distinctive bristly feathers around its face. Its small, localized range in eastern Panama and adjacent Colombia makes it vulnerable to forest loss.
Temperament
secretive and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats through dense understory
Social Behavior
Usually found singly or in pairs, maintaining territories in dense forest. Forages methodically in the lower to mid-understory, sometimes joining mixed-species flocks. Nesting is presumed to involve a small cup placed low in vegetation; both sexes likely share parental duties, as in related antshrikes.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a soft, evenly paced series of whistles that may accelerate slightly, sometimes ending in a brief rattle. Calls include low chips and dry notes given from concealed perches.
