Grallaria ruficapilla
The Chestnut-crowned Antpitta (Grallaria ruficapilla) is a strikingly handsome, medium-large terrestrial bird endemic to the Andes. Measuring approximately 18-24 cm (7-9.5 inches) in length and weighing 80-100 grams, it is characterized by its prominent rufous to chestnut crown and nape, contrasting with grey ear-coverts and a clean white throat patch. Its upperparts are olive-brown, while its underparts are a rich rufous, often fading to buffy on the belly. Distinctive field marks include it...
This antpitta primarily inhabits humid montane evergreen and cloud forests, favoring their borders, shaded ravines, and areas of secondary growth. It is found at elevations typically ranging from 1,400 to 3,100 meters (4,600-10,200 feet).
Its diet consists almost exclusively of various invertebrates, including insects such as beetles, crickets, and spiders, as well as earthworms and snails. It forages by hopping on the forest floor and meticulously gleaning prey from leaf litter and low vegetation.
The Chestnut-crowned Antpitta is primarily diurnal and highly terrestrial, spending most of its time hopping and walking on the forest floor, though it often perches low in dense undergrowth. It is notoriously difficult to observe despite its loud and far-carrying vocalizations, often freezing pe...
The Chestnut-crowned Antpitta has a wide distribution across the Andes of South America, primarily inhabiting humid montane forests. Its extensive range extends from the Andes of western Venezuela, south through the three cordilleras of Colombia, and continuing into the Andes of Ecuador and north...
Least Concern
- The Chestnut-crowned Antpitta is one of the most frequently observed antpittas due to its relative tameness at specific feeding stations, where it can be enticed with worms. - Despite its striking appearance and loud song, it is incredibly adept at vanishing into dense undergrowth, earning it t...