The Sucre antpitta is a Vulnerable species of bird in the family Grallariidae.It is endemic to Venezuela.
Region
Northern Venezuela (Coastal Cordillera)
Typical Environment
Occurs in humid montane and cloud forests of the northeastern Coastal Range, primarily in and around the Turimiquire Massif and adjacent foothills. It favors dense, mossy understory with plenty of leaf litter, especially along shaded ravines, stream edges, and bamboo or vine tangles. The species is largely terrestrial, keeping close to the forest floor. It tolerates some secondary growth but declines where forest is heavily fragmented.
Altitude Range
900–2000 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The Sucre antpitta is a shy, ground-dwelling antpitta restricted to the humid montane forests of northeastern Venezuela. It keeps to dense understory where it is more often detected by its soft, mournful whistles than seen. Habitat loss and degradation in its limited range have led to its Vulnerable status. Careful listening at dawn along mossy gullies is often the best way to find it.
Temperament
solitary and skulking
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats, low and brief flights
Social Behavior
Usually encountered alone or in pairs within dense understory. Nests are typically low and well-concealed, with both adults believed to share parental duties. Territorial calling is most frequent at dawn and after rain. It spends much of its time hopping on the forest floor, pausing to listen before pouncing on prey.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A soft, mournful series of clear whistled notes, spaced and slightly descending. Calls include short, plaintive whistles and quiet contact notes from within dense cover.
