Herpsilochmus

Herpsilochmus is a genus of passerine birds in the antbird family, Thamnophilidae. The genus is native to South America, found in tropical and subtropical forests. Species within Herpsilochmus are generally small, insectivorous birds that forage in the understory and mid-story of forests. They are often characterized by their streaked plumage, relatively long tails, and distinctive songs. Their diet primarily consists of insects and other arthropods, which they glean from foliage and branches.

The genus Herpsilochmus currently contains several recognized species, though taxonomic classifications can vary. Some well-known examples include the white-breasted antwren, the chorus antwren, and the bay-breasted antwren. These birds are often found in specific habitats, with some species having restricted ranges and being particularly sensitive to habitat loss. Their breeding behavior typically involves building small cup-shaped nests, usually concealed in vegetation. Both sexes often participate in incubation and chick-rearing. Due to their cryptic nature and often dense forest habitats, Herpsilochmus species can be challenging to observe and study. Conservation concerns exist for some species due to deforestation and habitat fragmentation in their native ranges.