Peru's Endemic Birds IV: Red-and-white Antpitta

Red-and-white antpitta (Grallaria erythroleuca) is a bird species in the family Grallariidae. It is endemic to Peru, primarily found on the eastern slopes of the Andes.

Taxonomy

• Authority: Described by Philip Sclater in 1874

It was previously considered a subspecies of the white-bellied antpitta (Grallaria hypoleuca) but is now recognized as a distinct species. It is monotypic, although individuals in the Cordillera Vilcabamba show differences that may represent an undescribed subspecies.

Description

• Length: 17–18 cm
• Weight: 73–80 g
• Crown and Nape: Bright rufous
• Back, Wings, Tail: Duller, browner rufous
• Throat and Belly Center: White (yellowish in Cordillera Vilcabamba)
• Breast Sides: Rufous-brown with white mottling forming a band
• Flanks: Rufous-brown with olive wash
• Iris: Medium brown with grayish or bluish-gray skin ring
• Bill: Black
• Legs and Feet: Slate-gray to blue-gray

Juveniles are similar to adults but show a buffier nape, fine black bars, and paler breast band. Their bill is black with yellow at the tip of the maxilla and a yellowish mandible.

Distribution and Habitat

The species occurs in the Andes of central and southern Peru, especially in the departments of Cuzco, Junín, and Ayacucho.

• Elevation Range: 1,758–3,400 m; most common between 2,100 and 3,000 m
• Habitats: Humid montane forests, secondary forest, landslide scars, and Chusquea bamboo stands

Behavior

Movement

Presumed to be a year-round resident; some seasonal elevation movements are possible.

Feeding

Feeds on insects and spiders. Forages on the ground and occasionally up to 1.5 meters above ground level, lunging into leaf litter.

Breeding

Breeding activity is inferred to occur between January and May. Details of nesting are unknown.

Conservation

The IUCN lists the red-and-white antpitta as Least Concern. It is considered uncommon to fairly common and occurs in several protected areas. It may tolerate some habitat disturbance but is vulnerable to habitat loss due to its restricted range.

Source: Wikipedia

Photo: Holmes Pantoja, Birds Hotel Molino, Birding Tours Peru