The white-plumed antbird is a small species of insectivorous bird in subfamily Thamnophilinae of family Thamnophilidae, the "typical antbirds". It is found in Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, French Guiana, Guyana, Peru, Suriname, and Venezuela.
Region
Amazon Basin and Guiana Shield
Typical Environment
Occurs in lowland evergreen rainforest, especially terra firme and well-drained interior forest with dense understory. Frequently attends army ant swarms along shaded forest floors, trails, and stream margins. It tolerates some secondary growth but is most common in intact forest. Typically forages within the lowest few meters of the understory, often perching just above the ground.
Altitude Range
0–1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
An obligate ant-follower, it relies on swarms of army ants to flush insects and other small prey from the leaf litter. Its namesake white facial plumes are erectile and used for close-range signaling between mates and rivals at ant swarms. It typically holds a priority position near the front of ant swarms and defends access to the best foraging spots.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with low, darting flights
Social Behavior
Usually encountered as territorial pairs that closely follow army ant swarms. Pairs maintain feeding priority near the swarm front and may chase other ant-following birds from prime spots. Nests are placed low in dense vegetation; both sexes participate in incubation and chick rearing.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Gives sharp, dry chips and rattling scolds around ant swarms. The song is a short, repeated series of clear notes or whistles delivered from low perches, often interspersed with churring calls.
Plumage
Overall rich rufous-brown to brown plumage with a darker, dusky face and mantle; males show long, erectile white facial plumes forming a conspicuous moustachial fan. Underparts are brownish; wings and tail often warmer rufous. Females are similar but slightly duller, with less contrasting facial pattern.
Diet
Specializes on arthropods flushed by army ants, including beetles, crickets, roaches, spiders, and other small invertebrates. Occasionally takes small vertebrates such as tiny frogs or lizards when available. Rarely, if ever, consumes fruit.
Preferred Environment
Forages on or just above the forest floor at the leading edge of active army ant swarms. Often perches on low stems or logs, making short sallies to seize prey from leaf litter and understory foliage.
