Masked antpitta  (Hylopezus auricularis)

Classified as Vulnerable (VU) on the IUCN Red List 2006 (1).

This small antpitta belongs to the antbird family, called so because many of the species follow army ants, preying on the insects and small animals that they flush out (3). The masked antpitta is named after the dark, reddish-brown ‘mask’, around the eyes and side of the head, underneath a grey crown. The lores, (between the eyes and the bill), are white, as is the throat, which is bordered by wide, black stripes. The upperparts and tail are olive-brown, the breast is creamy-white streaked with black, and the belly is white (2) (4). The song, (a long, fast, slightly descending series of short notes), is unlike the song of any other species of Hylopezus (5).

Occurs in northern Bolivia; in south eastern Pando and northern Beni (2). It is only known from three sites within this range (4).

The masked antpitta has been found in low-lying, muddy forest and thickets, within habitats heavily disturbed by people, including clay pits (for brick-making), grassy open spaces and low secondary forest (2) (5).

There has been no information recorded about the behaviour or ecology of the masked antpitta (2).

Due to the lack of information regarding the masked antpitta, it is hard to determine what threats it may be facing. At present, it is only known from a small range, and thus may be vulnerable to any potential threats. On the other hand, it appears to be an adaptable bird that tolerates disturbed habitats (2).

There are no known conservation measures in place for this species at present, and it is not known to occur in any protected areas. The most beneficial conservation action would be to conduct further research and surveys on this little-known bird (2) (4).

View information on this species at the UNEP World Conservation Monitoring Centre.

For further information on the masked antpitta see Birdlife International:
http://www.birdlife.org/datazone/species/index.html?action=SpcHTMDetails.asp&sid=30030&m=0