Formicarius moniliger
The Mayan Antthrush, *Formicarius moniliger*, is a captivating and often elusive denizen of Central American forest floors. Measuring approximately 18-19 cm (7.1-7.5 inches) in length and weighing between 60-70 grams (2.1-2.5 oz), this species is characterized by its deep rufous-chestnut crown, contrasting black face and throat, and a prominent black eye-ring that gives it a masked appearance. Its upperparts are a rich olive-brown, while the breast is greyish-white, gradually fading into buff...
Found primarily in humid lowland evergreen forests and mature secondary growth, preferring dense understory with ample leaf litter. It typically inhabits elevations from sea level up to around 1200-1500 meters.
Primarily insectivorous, feeding on a variety of insects, spiders, and other small terrestrial arthropods, typically gleaned from the leaf litter. It occasionally follows army ant swarms to capture fleeing prey.
The Mayan Antthrush is a strictly terrestrial and highly secretive bird, spending its entire day foraging in the dense undergrowth and leaf litter of the forest floor. It is primarily diurnal, often detected by its distinctive vocalizations rather than visual sightings. Foraging involves a charac...
The Mayan Antthrush is endemic to the humid lowlands of southeastern Mexico and northern Central America, maintaining a resident status throughout its distribution. Its range extends from the Yucatán Peninsula (including Campeche, Yucatán, and Quintana Roo) through Chiapas in Mexico. Southward, i...
Least Concern
- Despite its common name, the Mayan Antthrush's scientific distinction from the Black-faced Antthrush (*Formicarius analis*) was only formally recognized in 2005, based on distinct vocalizations and genetic analysis. - This bird is incredibly difficult to spot; its brown plumage and skulking hab...