Mackenziaena severa
The Tufted Antshrike (Mackenziaena severa) is a strikingly large and distinctive member of the Antbird family, Thamnophilidae, and is the sole species in its monotypic genus, Mackenziaena. Measuring approximately 25 cm (10 inches) in length, it is characterized by its robust, hooked bill and, most notably, a prominent erectile crest that gives the species its common name. Males are predominantly glossy black, intricately barred with fine white on the underparts, wings, and tail, creating a ha...
Found primarily in the dense understory of humid lowland and montane Atlantic Forest, favoring bamboo thickets, secondary growth, and forest borders. It typically occurs from near sea level up to elevations of about 2000 meters.
Primarily insectivorous, feeding on a variety of insects, spiders, and other arthropods gleaned from foliage and branches. It may also occasionally consume small vertebrates like lizards or berries.
The Tufted Antshrike is a largely solitary or paired species, known for its skulking and often elusive nature within its dense habitat. It forages actively by gleaning arthropods from foliage, twigs, and bark, often working its way through thickets with deliberate movements, occasionally flicking...
The Tufted Antshrike is endemic to the Atlantic Forest biome of southeastern South America, exhibiting a largely resident distribution. Its primary breeding range encompasses southern Brazil, extending from the states of Espírito Santo and Minas Gerais southwards through Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo...
Least Concern
- The "Tufted" in its name refers to its prominent, erectile crest, which it can raise and lower dramatically. - Despite its large size for an antshrike, it's remarkably shy and often heard more frequently than seen. - It's the only species in its genus, Mackenziaena, making it a taxonomically un...