Rufous-backed Stipplethroat

Overview

The rufous-backed stipplethroat is a small bird in the typical antbird family found across several South American countries. It was historically classified under different names but is now united by its distinctive throat markings and vocal characteristics.

Identification

• Measures 10 to 11 cm in length and weighs between 8 and 10.5 g.
• Males of the nominate subspecies have a light gray face, a black throat with white spots, and deep rufous backs.
• Females possess a yellowish olive-brown face and underparts, often with visible dark feather bases on a pale throat.
• Song consists of an extra-high, thin, descending rapid shiver described as 'tsititi---' lasting two to three seconds.

Habitat

The species primarily inhabits terra firme evergreen forest, with some subspecies also found in transitional and várzea forests. Its range spans Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and Venezuela, typically occurring below 500 m elevation though reaching up to 1,300 m in certain areas.

Diet

It feeds on arthropods, particularly insects and spiders, foraging in the understory by gleaning prey from dead leaves on trees, vine tangles, and small palms. This activity usually takes place singly, in pairs, or within mixed-species feeding flocks.

Did you know?

A single observed nest was a roofed cup resembling a globe, woven from leaves and rootlets and suspended between two palm fronds approximately one metre above the ground.