Thamnomanes caesius
The Cinereous Antshrike (*Thamnomanes caesius*) is a medium-small, rather inconspicuous member of the antbird family (Thamnophilidae), widely recognized for its crucial role within Neotropical mixed-species foraging flocks. Males are characterized by their uniform slate-gray plumage, often appearing darker on the wings and tail, accentuated by a small, yet distinct, black throat patch and a slender, slightly hooked bill. These birds typically measure between 14 to 16 cm (5.5-6.3 inches) in le...
This species primarily inhabits the understory and midstory of humid lowland evergreen forests, generally found at elevations below 900-1000 meters (3,000-3,300 feet).
Their diet consists primarily of insects and other small arthropods, which they capture by gleaning from vegetation or making short sally-strikes from perches.
Cinereous Antshrikes are diurnal birds, actively foraging for insects throughout the day, though specific communal roosting habits are not widely documented. Their foraging strategy involves gleaning insects from foliage and bark, often performing short sally-strikes to capture airborne prey or i...
The Cinereous Antshrike is a widespread resident species found throughout much of the Amazon Basin and the Guianas. Its extensive year-round range spans across southeastern Colombia, southern and eastern Venezuela, Guyana, Suriname, French Guiana, eastern Ecuador, eastern Peru, northern Bolivia, ...
Least Concern
- The Cinereous Antshrike is considered a "nuclear species" in Neotropical mixed-species foraging flocks, often initiating and leading these diverse avian groups. - Males and females exhibit strong sexual dimorphism, with males being uniformly slate-gray and females sporting rufous underparts and...