Hotel Rivel

A Striking Songster: The Barred Antshrike

Welcome back, nature enthusiasts, to another avian adventure in the heart of Costa Rica! Today, we delve into the dense undergrowth to meet a fascinating resident of the forest floor – the Barred Antshrike.

This lively songbird is a member of the antbird family, aptly named for their insectivorous diet. But unlike its cousins, the Barred Antshrike boasts a striking appearance that makes it a true standout.

A Tale of Two Plumages

The Barred Antshrike exhibits a remarkable case of sexual dimorphism, meaning males and females look dramatically different. Here’s how to tell them apart:

  • The Dapper Dude: The male Barred Antshrike is a vision in black and white stripes, earning him the nickname “convict bird” in some circles. These bold bars cover most of his body, with thicker black stripes adorning his upperparts and thinner ones on his underbelly.
  • The Rufous Robin: The female Barred Antshrike takes a more subdued approach. Cloaked in warm rufous tones, she has subtle dusky streaks on her head and a rufous crown that forms a spiky crest, a characteristic shared by both sexes.

A Voice in the Thicket

While spotting a Barred Antshrike can be a challenge due to their preference for dense vegetation, their presence is often announced by their distinctive song. Imagine a series of rapid, chuckling notes – “hu-hu-hu-hu-hu” – that sometimes transforms into a low growl. These vocalizations, often performed as a duet by a mated pair, will guide you towards these elusive birds.

A Resident of the Lower Levels

The Barred Antshrike is a bird of the understory, inhabiting forest edges, thickets, and areas with plenty of low vegetation. Here at our Costa Rican retreat, nestled amidst the mountains, you’re likely to encounter them in the early mornings or late afternoons as they forage for their favorite prey: ants and other crawling arthropods. They’ll hop and flit amongst the undergrowth, their sharp eyes scanning for a tasty morsel.

While not the easiest bird to see, the Barred Antshrike’s unique plumage and captivating song make it a rewarding discovery. Keep your ears tuned for their calls and your eyes peeled for a flash of black and white or rufous amongst the leaves – a sighting of this special bird is sure to be a highlight of your Costa Rican adventure.

For more information, please view our comprehensive guide about the birds of Costa Rica

This post is also available in: Français (French) Español (Spanish)