Hafferia zeledoni
The Zeledon's Antbird (Hafferia zeledoni) is a striking, relatively large antbird, measuring approximately 19 cm (7.5 inches) in length and weighing between 50-60 grams. Males are almost entirely glossy black, presenting a sleek, uniform appearance, while females exhibit distinct sexual dimorphism with dark brown upperparts, a rufous crown, blacker wings and tail, and a buffy throat and breast contrasting with a darker belly. These birds are distinguishable from similar species within their f...
This species primarily inhabits the dense understory of humid evergreen forests, frequently utilizing mature secondary growth and edges, often near streams or ravines. It is found from lowlands up to approximately 1,500 meters (4,900 feet) in elevation.
The diet of Zeledon's Antbird consists almost exclusively of arthropods, including insects like cockroaches, crickets, beetles, and spiders, which are flushed from the forest floor by army ant swarms. It captures prey by short sallies and gleaning from low vegetation and the ground.
Zeledon's Antbird is a diurnal species, spending its active hours foraging intensely throughout the forest understory. Its most remarkable behavioral trait is its obligate association with army ant swarms, particularly those of the genus *Eciton*, upon which it relies almost entirely for its food...
Zeledon's Antbird is a resident species with a relatively restricted range along the Caribbean slope of Central America. Its distribution extends from north-central Costa Rica, specifically in the lowlands and foothills of the Caribbean watershed, southward into western Panama. Within Panama, it ...
Least Concern
- Zeledon's Antbird is an 'obligate ant-follower,' meaning it relies almost entirely on army ant swarms to flush out its prey, rarely foraging on its own. - Its scientific name, *Hafferia zeledoni*, honors José Castulo Zeledón, a prominent Costa Rican ornithologist from the late 19th century. - U...