Grallaricula leymebambae
The Rufous-breasted Antpitta, *Grallaricula leymebambae*, is a petite and elusive member of the Antpitta family (Grallariidae), measuring approximately 10-11 cm (4 inches) in length and weighing a mere 14-18 grams. Its distinctive appearance includes an olive-brown crown and upperparts, a striking rufous throat and breast that fades to a white belly, and a prominent white supercilium above a bright orange-yellow eye-ring. A subtle buff or white postocular streak and a fine black malar stripe ...
Found exclusively in the dense understory of humid montane cloud forests and elfin woodlands, typically at elevations between 1,900 and 3,100 meters.
Primarily insectivorous, consuming a variety of small invertebrates such as beetles, ants, spiders, and insect larvae, which it gleans from the forest floor and low vegetation.
This antpitta is a highly secretive, diurnal bird, spending most of its time hopping quietly on or very near the forest floor amidst dense vegetation. It forages by gleaning small invertebrates from leaf litter, moss, and low-lying branches, often pausing to stand upright with a characteristic po...
The Rufous-breasted Antpitta is endemic to the humid montane forests of the northern Peruvian Andes. Its known distribution spans several departments including Cajamarca, Amazonas, San MartÃn, and La Libertad. Specifically, it has been recorded from the Cordillera del Condor south through the Utc...
Least Concern
- The Rufous-breasted Antpitta was only recognized as a distinct species in 2017, having previously been considered a subspecies of the Rufous-faced Antpitta. - Its scientific name, *leymebambae*, refers to the town of Leymebamba in Amazonas, Peru, which is near its type locality. - It is one of ...