The white-browed antpitta is a species of bird in the family Grallariidae. It is endemic to Brazil.
Region
Northeastern Brazil
Typical Environment
Occurs patchily in the caatinga and adjacent dry forests of northeastern Brazil, favoring dense understory and thickets. It keeps close to the ground in scrubby woodlands, dry gallery forests, and secondary growth with ample leaf litter. The species avoids open areas and relies on cover for foraging and nesting. Local presence is strongly tied to intact understory structure and leaf-litter depth.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1200 m
Climate Zone
Arid
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A shy, ground-dwelling antpitta of Brazil’s semi-arid caatinga, it is more often heard than seen. It forages by hopping through leaf litter, flicking leaves aside to expose insects and other small prey. Habitat loss and fragmentation are major concerns within its restricted range. Its clear, whistled song carries far in the early morning and late afternoon.
Temperament
solitary and skulking
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats; reluctant, low flights between cover
Social Behavior
Usually seen alone or in pairs, maintaining territories in dense understory. Nests are typically placed low, often near the ground in concealed sites. Both adults are believed to participate in territory defense and parental care. Displays are subtle, relying more on vocal announcements than visual showiness.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A series of clear, mellow whistles delivered at measured intervals, often descending slightly in pitch. Calls are far-carrying and serve as the primary way the bird is detected in thick cover.
Plumage
Warm brown upperparts with a slightly rufescent wash and paler, buffy underparts lightly spotted or mottled on the breast. The feathering is soft and dense, aiding a rounded, thrush-like appearance. Contrasting facial pattern with a clean, bold supercilium stands out in dim understory light.
Diet
Feeds mainly on insects and other arthropods such as ants, beetles, spiders, and larvae. Will also take small invertebrates uncovered by leaf-litter scratching. Occasionally snaps up small vertebrates like tiny frogs when available. Foraging is methodical, with frequent pauses to listen and watch for movement.
Preferred Environment
Forages on the forest floor within dense thickets, vine tangles, and along shaded streambeds. Prefers areas with deep leaf litter and plenty of cover, avoiding open or heavily disturbed ground.
