The white-bellied antpitta is a species of bird in the family Grallariidae. It is found in Colombia, Ecuador and Peru.
Region
Northern Andes
Typical Environment
Occurs in the foothill and montane forests of Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru, typically on the humid slopes of the Andes. Prefers dense understory in primary and well-regenerated secondary forest, especially along steep ravines, mossy thickets, and bamboo (Chusquea) stands. Often keeps close to the forest floor and avoids open areas. It is generally local but can be fairly common where habitat is intact.
Altitude Range
800–2400 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A shy, ground-dwelling antpitta of humid Andean forests, it is far more often heard than seen due to its ventriloquial, mournful whistles. It forages by hopping through leaf litter and pausing to snatch hidden prey. Protecting continuous montane forest is key to its persistence, as it avoids heavily disturbed habitats.
Temperament
secretive and skulking
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with low, direct flights between cover
Social Behavior
Usually solitary or in pairs, defending territories with persistent singing from concealed perches near the ground. Nests are typically cup-like and placed low or near the ground in dense vegetation. Both adults likely participate in parental care, remaining inconspicuous around the nest.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a series of clear, plaintive whistles, often descending and well spaced, that carry through the forest understory. Calls can sound ventriloquial, making the bird hard to locate even at close range.
Plumage
Upperparts rich brown to olive-brown with a clean, contrasting white belly and lower underparts; breast and flanks may show light mottling or buffy wash. Face often slightly grayer with a subtle pale eye ring; wings and tail plain. Feathers are soft and dense, aiding a rounded, compact profile typical of antpittas.
Diet
Primarily consumes arthropods such as beetles, ants, spiders, and caterpillars gleaned from leaf litter and rotting logs. Also takes earthworms and other soft-bodied invertebrates, and occasionally small vertebrates like tiny frogs. Foraging is methodical, with pauses to listen and sudden pounces on moving prey.
Preferred Environment
Feeds on the dim forest floor in dense understory, along trails, stream edges, and bamboo patches. Often forages in shaded ravines and areas with deep leaf litter where prey is abundant.
