Streak-backed Antshrike

About the Streak-backed Antshrike

The streak-backed antshrike (Thamnophilus insignis) is a species of bird in subfamily Thamnophilinae of family Thamnophilidae, the "typical antbirds". It is found in Brazil, Guyana, and Venezuela. The streak-backed antshrike has two subspecies, the nominate T. i. insignis (Salvin & Godman, 1884) and T. i. nigrifrontalis (Phelps, WH & Phelps, WH Jr, 1947). The streak-backed and the Acre antshrike (T. divisorius) are sister species.

The streak-backed antshrike is 16 to 17 cm (6.3 to 6.7 in) long and weighs 22 to 30 g (0.78 to 1.1 oz). Members of genus Thamnophilus are largish members of the antbird family; all have stout bills with a hook like those of true shrikes. This species exhibits slight sexual dimorphism. Adult males of the nominate subspecies have a black crown and nape with a few white feathers on them. Their upperparts are black with a white patch between the scapulars that shows as spots or streaks. Their wings, scapulars, and wing coverts are black with white spots and edges. Their tail is black with white spots and tips on the outer feathers. Their underparts are gray with a somewhat lighter belly. Adult females resemble males... Wikipedia →