Formicariidae

Formicarius colma -Vale do Ribeira, Registro, Sao Paulo, Brazil-8 (1)

Chamaeza meruloides - Such's Anttrush; Iporanga, São Paulo, Brazil

Formicariidae is a family of birds in the order Passeriformes, known commonly as the antbirds. They are found primarily in subtropical and tropical regions of Central and South America. The family encompasses a diverse group of insectivorous birds that are especially noted for their relationships with ants, a trait that is reflected in their common name. This article provides an overview of the Formicariidae family, including their characteristics, habitat, behavior, and taxonomy.

Characteristics

Members of the Formicariidae family vary greatly in size and coloration, but they generally exhibit features that are well-adapted to their forest environments. They typically have strong legs for walking on the forest floor, and their plumage tends to be dull-colored to blend into the leaf litter. Many species have short, rounded wings due to their relatively sedentary lifestyle within dense forest habitats. Their bills can vary in shape, but are usually strong and suited to their insectivorous diet.

Habitat

The Formicariidae family is predominantly found in the humid forests of Central and South America, ranging from lowland rainforests to montane forests. They are less commonly found in drier or more open areas. These birds are highly adapted to life in the understory and forest floor, where they forage for insects and other small prey.

Behavior

Antbirds are named for their unique foraging behavior, as many species follow columns of army ants to feed on the insects and other small animals that flee from the ants. This behavior, known as ant-following, allows them to access a rich food source. However, not all species in the Formicariidae family exhibit this behavior. In general, antbirds are territorial and often found in pairs or family groups. They are known for their loud and sometimes complex vocalizations.

Taxonomy

The taxonomy of the Formicariidae family has undergone significant changes in recent years, with molecular phylogenetic studies leading to the reclassification of several species and genera. The family is divided into two subfamilies: the Formicariinae, which includes the ground antbirds, and the Thamnophilinae, which includes the typical antbirds. There are approximately 230 species within the family, making it one of the largest families of birds in the world.

Conservation

Many species within the Formicariidae family are threatened by habitat loss and fragmentation, as their forest habitats are cleared for agriculture and development. Conservation efforts are focused on protecting these habitats and understanding the ecological roles of antbirds within their ecosystems.