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Rufous gnateater facts for kids

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Rufous gnateater
Conopophaga lineata.jpg
Conservation status
Scientific classification
Genus:
Conopophaga
Species:
lineata
Subspecies

See text

Conopophaga lineata map.svg

The rufous gnateater (Conopophaga lineata) is a small bird from the gnateater family. It lives in the forests and bushes of eastern Brazil. You can also find it in eastern Paraguay, northeastern Argentina, and recently, in Uruguay. This bird can be hard to spot because it likes to hide. However, it is more common and less shy than other gnateaters.

What Does the Rufous Gnateater Look Like?

This bird is small and round, about 13 centimeters (5 inches) long. It has a short tail and fairly long legs. Its plumage (feathers) are mostly reddish-brown.

Special Features of the Rufous Gnateater

Above its eye, it has a white stripe. In female birds, this stripe is grey. The stripe ends in a small tuft of feathers that the bird can hide.

What Sounds Does the Rufous Gnateater Make?

The rufous gnateater makes quiet "cheep" sounds. These sounds get faster and higher-pitched. When it's dawn or dusk, male gnateaters fly around their territory. As they fly, their wing feathers make a buzzing sound.

How Does the Rufous Gnateater Find Food?

The rufous gnateater moves quickly through the plants close to the ground. It hops from one branch or perch to another. When it sees an insect, it flies down quickly. It might land on the ground or on a leaf to catch its meal.

Rufous Gnateater Reproduction and Nesting

The rufous gnateater builds a cup-shaped nest in a tree. The nest is made from small sticks and moss. The female bird lays two eggs. These eggs are buff-colored and have an oval or slightly pointed shape.

Types of Rufous Gnateaters: Subspecies

Scientists recognize two main types, or subspecies, of the rufous gnateater. They are found in different areas.

  • C. l. lineata (described by zu Wied-Neuwied in 1831) - This type is found in Brazil.
  • C. l. vulgaris (described by Ménétries in 1835) - This type lives in Brazil, Paraguay, Uruguay, and northeastern Argentina.
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