Birders

The Grallaria alvarezi, commonly known as the Chami Antpitta, is one of the most recent and exciting additions to the world of ornithology, formally described in 2020. This endemic Colombian species is distinguished by its unique vocalizations and its preference for dense Andean understory, making it a significant discovery for the country’s biodiversity. Its existence was confirmed through a combination of genetic analysis and detailed field studies.

The Masked Trogon is a medium-sized bird, typically measuring around 25 to 28 cm (9.8 to 11 inches) in length. Its striking appearance is characterized by iridescent feathers that shimmer with various hues depending on the light.

The Spotted Antbird is a small, striking bird found in the understory of tropical forests. Adults measure about 12.5 cm (5 inches) in length. Males have a black face, throat, and upper chest, contrasting sharply with a white belly that’s covered in bold black spots—hence the name «Spotted.» Their upperparts are olive-brown with chestnut-colored wings marked by white wingbars. Females are similar but duller overall, with a more subdued face pattern and less contrast in the spotting.

This bird has a very particular nest, which consists of a long cone which it builds with vegetable wool and feathers. Its name Panyptila which derives from the Greek roots panu = excessively and ptilon = wing. Its epithet cayennensis refers to Cayenne, the capital of French Guiana.