Herpsilochmus rufimarginatus
The Rufous-margined Antwren (Herpsilochmus rufimarginatus) is a sprightly and diminutive songbird belonging to the antbird family Thamnophilidae, renowned for its active foraging style. Measuring approximately 11-12 cm in length and weighing a mere 8-12 grams, this species exhibits striking sexual dimorphism. Males boast a contrasting black crown and nape, a prominent white supercilium, and distinct white wing-bars, but it is the diagnostic rufous-chestnut margins on their flight feathers tha...
This species primarily inhabits the canopy and subcanopy of humid tropical and subtropical forests, as well as mature secondary growth, typically from lowlands up to elevations of about 1,200-1,500 meters.
The Rufous-margined Antwren is primarily insectivorous, feeding on a variety of small insects and their larvae, as well as spiders and other small arthropods, which it gleans from foliage and bark.
The Rufous-margined Antwren is a highly active, diurnal species, constantly on the move as it gleans small insects and other arthropods from leaves and twigs. It primarily forages in the middle to upper strata of the forest, often joining mixed-species flocks, an efficient strategy for enhanced f...
The Rufous-margined Antwren boasts an extensive, albeit fragmented, distribution across much of the Neotropics, primarily from Central America south through parts of South America. Its range extends from Nicaragua and Costa Rica, eastward through Panama, and then discontinuously across northern S...
Least Concern
- The Rufous-margined Antwren is not an "ant-follower" despite belonging to the antbird family (Thamnophilidae); it actively gleans insects independently. - Its scientific genus name, *Herpsilochmus*, derives from Greek words meaning "creeper" and "ambusher/hider," reflecting its agile, secretive...