Myrmoborus lophotes
The White-lined Antbird, Myrmoborus lophotes, is a striking member of the antbird family Thamnophilidae, showcasing marked sexual dimorphism. Males are instantly recognizable by their prominent, erectile black crest, contrasted by a bold white supercilium that extends from the lore to behind the eye, a black face and throat, and clean white underparts. Their upperparts are a uniform slate grey, typically measuring around 14-15 cm in length and weighing between 18-25 grams. Females present a m...
This species primarily inhabits humid, lowland evergreen forests, particularly terra firme (non-flooded) and riparian zones, often near stream beds and mature secondary growth. It typically occurs at elevations from sea level up to around 700 meters.
Their diet consists almost exclusively of arthropods, including various insects such as beetles, orthopterans, and ants, as well as spiders. They forage by gleaning prey from foliage and twigs, primarily in the understory, and by snatching prey flushed by army ant swarms.
The White-lined Antbird is predominantly diurnal, spending its active hours foraging in the dense understory vegetation, typically as solitary individuals or in pairs. A remarkable aspect of its behavior is its facultative association with army ant swarms, where it perches low, gleaning flushed a...
The White-lined Antbird is a resident species found exclusively in the western Amazon Basin of South America. Its distribution spans southeastern Colombia, eastern Ecuador, eastern Peru, and extends into western Brazil, primarily west of the Rio Madeira, reaching south to the northern parts of Bo...
Least Concern
- The White-lined Antbird's scientific name, 'lophotes,' is derived from Greek, meaning 'crested,' directly referencing the male's prominent feature. - Males can erect their black crest dramatically, using it for display during territorial disputes or courtship, or even when alarmed. - Unlike man...