The white-eyed stipplethroat, previously called white-eyed antwren, is a species of bird in the family Thamnophilidae. It is found in Bolivia, Brazil, and Peru.
Region
Southwestern Amazonia
Typical Environment
Inhabits lowland tropical rainforest across Bolivia, western Brazil, and southeastern Peru. It favors terra firme forest with dense understory and vine tangles, and is frequently associated with bamboo (Guadua) thickets and edge habitats along small streams. The species keeps close to the ground and mid-understory, typically between 1–6 meters above the forest floor. It is generally absent from heavily disturbed or open areas but may persist in selectively logged forest with intact understory.
Altitude Range
0–1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Also known historically as the white-eyed antwren, this small antbird is named for its striking pale iris. It forages methodically in the understory, often inspecting clusters of dead leaves for hidden arthropods. Pairs commonly join mixed-species flocks, which helps them find food and avoid predators.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Typically found in pairs or small family groups that often join mixed-species flocks in the understory. Pairs maintain territories and communicate with soft contact calls. Nests are usually deep cups suspended low in dense vegetation, with both parents participating in care.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A thin, high-pitched series of accelerating notes and short trills, delivered from low perches. Calls include sharp tseet or sip notes used to keep contact while foraging.
Plumage
Fine, stippled spotting on the throat and upper breast over darker feathers; upperparts brown with subtle mottling and faint wing markings. Females tend to show warmer rufous tones below with lighter scaling, while males are darker-throated with denser white speckling.
Diet
Feeds primarily on small arthropods such as spiders, ants, beetles, and caterpillars. It specializes in gleaning prey from leaf surfaces and probing clusters of dead leaves where insects hide. Occasional hover-gleaning and short sallies are used to pick prey from foliage.
Preferred Environment
Forages in the lower to mid-understory of terra firme rainforest, vine tangles, and bamboo stands. Often works along forest edges, streamside thickets, and light gaps where dense understory is present.
