Black-crowned Antpitta

Overview

The black-crowned antpitta (Pittasoma michleri) is a small bird in the gnateater family, Conopophagidae. It is one of two species in the genus Pittasoma and is classified as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List.

Identification

• Length of 18–19 cm with a body mass between 99 and 110 grams.

Habitat

Found in Colombia, Costa Rica, and Panama, this species inhabits subtropical or tropical moist foothill forests. It primarily occupies altitudes between 300 and 1000 m in Costa Rica, though it also occurs in the lowlands of Panama.

Diet

Feeds on invertebrates including insects, spiders, amblypygi, and scorpions, as well as small vertebrates such as frogs and small reptiles.

Did you know?

The specific name honours Brigadier-General Nathaniel Michler, while the subspecific name zeledoni honours José Castulo Zeledón.