Scientific Name: Thamnophilus atrinucha

Uncommon in tropical lowlands, mainly in forest borders, plantations, open woodlands, and second growth. Mainly forages at low to middle levels and, like many antbirds, often in pairs, which keep in touch by singing. Male is gray overall with a messy blackish cap, blackish wings with white wingbars and edgings, and white-tipped black tail. Female has similar wing and tail pattern, but is drab brownish overall, paler on underparts. Formerly known as Western Slaty Antshrike.

The Black-crowned Antshrike is a secretive bird, often heard before it is seen. Its duet-like calls, exchanged between male and female, echo softly through the lower forest layers as they move methodically through dense foliage in search of insects and spiders. Despite its subdued colors, its behavior and presence add a sense of quiet mystery to tropical woodlands. Patient observers may catch a glimpse of the pair flicking their tails or briefly emerging into view before vanishing again into the shadows of the understory.