White-bellied Antpitta

The White-bellied Antpitta occurs in humid montane forests along both slopes of the Ecuadorian Andes, typically between 1,800 and 3,000 meters, where it favors dense understory and mossy ravines. It is generally uncommon and elusive, often detected by its mournful whistles rather than by sight, as it hops quietly through thick vegetation in search of insects and other invertebrates. The species is listed as Least Concern by the IUCN, with a stable population across its Andean range, though it may be vulnerable to habitat fragmentation. Natural history observations highlight its solitary habits, cryptic plumage, and cup-shaped nests built low in concealed forest sites, with breeding activity peaking during the rainy season.