Caatinga antwren

The Caatinga antwren is the only member of the genus Radinopsyche. When originally described, it was placed in the genus Herpsilochmus as the pileated antwren. In 2000, a study showed that the southeastern population of the pileated antwren varied from the larger population in terms of morphology and vocalizations.[4] A split was proposed between the two, with the Bahia antwren representing the smaller southeastern population, and the Caatinga antwren the rest. Mitochondrial DNA studies in 2021 showed that the Caatinga antwren was more closely related to the white-bearded antshrike (Biatas nigropectus), prompting it to be placed in a new monotypic genus.[3]

The Caatinga antwren is a small bird, averaging 10.5–11.5 centimetres (4.1–4.5 in) long, and 6.5–8 grams (0.23–0.28 oz) in weight.[5] Both sexes have a black crown and nape, with a dark eyeband. The wings are dark near the shoulder, with white bands across and black feather tips. The tail is largely black with white tips and white outer feathers. The male is overall a dusky grey with lighter underparts. The female has a grey back with buffy underparts.[6]

The Caatinga antwren is endemic to Brazil. It is found in the north-central and eastern regions of the country. It is found from Maranhão in the east to the Rio Grande do Norte in the west, and from Minas Gerais in the north to Bahia in the south.[7]

Caatinga

As its name suggests, it is found primarily in the Caatinga, a type of semi-arid tropical vegetation found in northeastern Brazil. It is most abundant in semi-deciduous forest between 300–900 metres (980–2,950 ft) in elevation.[8]

Similar to other antbirds, Caatinga antwren's diet consists primarily of arthropods, including grasshoppers, crickets, and moths.[9] Few studies have been done on the particulars of the Caatinga antwren's diet.