Thamnophilus aroyae
The Upland Antshrike (*Thamnophilus aroyae*) is a distinctive member of the antbird family (Thamnophilidae), known for its striking sexual dimorphism and preference for montane cloud forests. Males are predominantly slate-gray to dark gray with a contrasting black cap, subtle white wing-bars, and a tail neatly tipped with white, giving them a sleek appearance. Females, in contrast, sport a rufous-brown crown, olive-brown upperparts, and paler, buffy-washed underparts, adorned with buffy wing-...
This species primarily inhabits humid montane and cloud forests, favoring dense understory and forest borders. It is typically found at elevations ranging from 1,000 to 2,600 meters (3,300 to 8,500 feet) above sea level.
The Upland Antshrike feeds primarily on insects and other arthropods, which it gleans from dense foliage and branches within the forest understory.
Upland Antshrikes are generally observed alone or in pairs, often moving quietly through the dense undergrowth and mid-story of their forest habitat. They are diurnal, spending their days actively foraging, though they can be quite elusive due to their cryptic plumage and preference for thick veg...
The Upland Antshrike is a non-migratory resident species, with its distribution restricted to the humid montane forests of the central Andes. Its primary breeding and year-round range encompasses southeastern Peru, specifically in departments like Puno and Cusco, extending into central Bolivia, w...
Least Concern
- The Upland Antshrike is endemic to a relatively small region of the central Andes, making it a special find for birders visiting southern Peru and central Bolivia. - Despite belonging to the diverse *Thamnophilus* genus, *T. aroyae* stands out with its distinct song, which is often described as...