Chestnut-backed Antbird

The Chestnut-backed Antbird, known scientifically as Poliocrania exsul, is a passerine bird belonging to the family Thamnophilidae. This species exhibits sexual dimorphism, with both sexes sporting a distinctive pale blue bare patch of skin around each eye. The adult male is adorned with a blackish head, neck, and breast, while the rest of the upperparts, including wings and tail, are a rich chestnut. The female, on the other hand, has a brownish-black head and neck that does not extend to the breast, with underparts varying from darker chestnut to more rufous depending on the subspecies.

Identification Tips

To identify this bird, look for its heavy-bodied and short-tailed stature, typically measuring around 14 centimeters in length and weighing approximately 28 grams. The male's blackish upper body contrasted with chestnut plumage and the female's brownish-black head are key distinguishing features. Subspecies in certain regions may also exhibit two wing bars consisting of white spots.

Habitat

The Chestnut-backed Antbird thrives in the understory thickets of wet forests, particularly at edges, along streams, and in old treefall clearings. It is also found in adjacent tall second growth.

Distribution

This bird can be found from eastern Nicaragua to western Ecuador, mainly in lowland humid forests up to an altitude of 900 meters, and occasionally higher.

Behaviour

Pairs of Chestnut-backed Antbirds are commonly found together throughout the year. They may sometimes join mixed-species feeding flocks or follow swarms of army ants. This species is known for being more often heard than seen due to its dense habitat but can be lured into view by mimicking its song.

Song & Calls

The male Chestnut-backed Antbird sings a whistled "peeet peeew," which is responded to by the female's higher-pitched version. The species also emits a grating "naar" call.

Breeding

Breeding pairs construct an untidy cup nest from vines, plant fiber, and dead leaves, placed low in vegetation. Both sexes incubate the two purple or red-brown spotted white eggs and are responsible for feeding the chicks.

Similar Species

The Chestnut-backed Antbird may be confused with other antbird species, but its unique coloration and the pale blue periophthalmic ring are helpful in distinguishing it.

Diet and Feeding

Its diet consists of insects, other arthropods, and occasionally small frogs or lizards, which it forages from leaf litter and vine tangles in low vegetation or on the ground.

Conservation status

The IUCN Red List has classified the Chestnut-backed Antbird as Least Concern, indicating that it currently faces no significant threats to its survival.