The Grey-bellied Antbird is a small passerine bird that is found in the tropical regions of South America. It belongs to the family Thamnophilidae and is also known as the Scaled Antbird or Scale-backed Antbird.
The Grey-bellied Antbird measures about 14 cm in length and weighs about 17 grams. It has a dull grey head and back with black and white scales on the wings and tail. Its underparts are a slightly paler grey with a distinct grey belly. The male and female species are similar in appearance, with the female being slightly smaller.
This bird is a skilled forager, using its curved bill to dig through leaf litter and soil in search of insects and other small invertebrates. It also feeds on seeds and fruits, making it an omnivore. The Grey-bellied Antbird is known for its close association with army ant swarms, which it follows in order to catch insects and small animals that are flushed out by the ants.
This species is mainly found in the understory of tropical forests in South America, from eastern Colombia to northern Brazil. It prefers moist areas such as riverbanks and swamps, but can also be found in drier areas such as cocoa and coffee plantations.
The Grey-bellied Antbird is monogamous and forms strong pair bonds. It builds its nest in low shrubs or on the ground, using twigs and leaves to construct a cup-shaped structure. The female lays 2-3 eggs and both parents take turns incubating the eggs and feeding the chicks.
There are no major threats to the Grey-bellied Antbird, although habitat loss due to deforestation and agriculture may be affecting populations in some areas. However, it is listed as a species of Least Concern by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).
Overall, the Grey-bellied Antbird is a fascinating bird with unique adaptations and behavior. Its close association with army ant swarms and its omnivorous diet make it a valuable member of the forest ecosystem.