Clibanornis rubiginosus
The Ruddy Foliage-gleaner (Clibanornis rubiginosus) is a medium-sized ovenbird, typically measuring 18-20 cm (7-8 inches) in length and weighing 40-50 grams. Its plumage is strikingly uniform, a rich, warm rufous-brown across its body, with a slightly paler, often faintly streaked throat, and a brighter rusty rump and tail, giving it its characteristic "ruddy" appearance. Lacking prominent contrasting field marks, its sturdy bill and overall coloration are key identification features. Taxonom...
Resides in the understory and mid-story of humid subtropical and tropical lowland and montane forests, often preferring dense tangles, ravines, and areas with substantial dead leaf litter, from sea level up to 2,000 meters.
Feeds mainly on insects, including beetles, ants, and various larvae, as well as spiders and other small arthropods, meticulously gleaned from foliage and bark.
Primarily diurnal, the Ruddy Foliage-gleaner is a rather secretive bird, often observed alone or in pairs, moving methodically through dense undergrowth. It is a specialized gleaner, systematically searching for arthropods among dead leaves, epiphyte masses, and bark crevices, frequently using it...
The Ruddy Foliage-gleaner boasts a wide and somewhat fragmented distribution across Central and South America. Its breeding range extends from southern Mexico (Oaxaca, Chiapas) through Belize, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, and Panama. In South America, it is found across Colombia, V...
Least Concern
- Its scientific name, *Clibanornis rubiginosus*, roughly translates to "ruddy oven-bird," hinting at its coloration and taxonomic family. - Despite its name, "foliage-gleaner," it often specifically targets dead or decaying leaves where many insects hide, making it a "dead-leaf specialist. - Unl...