Rhegmatorhina hoffmannsi
The White-breasted Antbird (Rhegmatorhina hoffmannsi) is a striking passerine bird, endemic to the southwestern Amazon Basin of Brazil, belonging to the Thamnophilidae family, commonly known as antbirds. Males are distinguished by their pristine white breast, contrasting with a greyish-brown back and a glossy black crown. A prominent feature for identification is the large, bare, pale blue orbital ring encircling a dark eye, providing a vivid contrast against its plumage. Females share a simi...
This species primarily inhabits the understory of undisturbed lowland *terra firme* (non-flooded) rainforests, typically at elevations below 500 meters.
The diet consists almost exclusively of insects and other small invertebrates, such as spiders and millipedes, that are flushed from the forest floor by army ant swarms. They primarily forage by sallying from low perches to snatch prey in mid-air or off leaves.
The White-breasted Antbird is an obligate army ant follower, rarely observed away from active swarms of species like *Eciton burchellii*. Its daily activity revolves around these ant columns, perching low (usually 0.5-2 meters above the ground) and sallying down to capture insects and other arthr...
The White-breasted Antbird is an endemic resident of the southwestern Amazon Basin in Brazil. Its distribution is primarily south of the Amazon River and east of the Madeira River, extending into the Brazilian states of Rondônia, Mato Grosso, and western Pará. This restricted range is largely con...
Least Concern
- The White-breasted Antbird is considered an 'obligate' ant-follower, meaning it almost entirely relies on army ant swarms to find its food. It rarely forages independently. - Its bright pale blue orbital ring is one of the most striking facial markings among Neotropical birds, making it instant...