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This enormous ground-antbird has been elusive and local throughout
central Panama for many years, perhaps best found (a relative term) around Cerro Azul/Jefe.
Ridgely's Birds of Panama notes that it was found occasionally on Pipeline and Achiote Roads, but I am unaware
of any recent reports from these locations, and it is likely extirpated from these areas. But a most pleasing development has been the
discovery of a solid population in the extensive area of Altos del Maria, where it is now seen on a reasonably regular basis. It is anything
but an easy bird- it took me three tries to enjoy a furtive glimpse of the antpitta- but it is reported at least monthly. But one must remember that
Altos del Maria is ultimately a housing development, so the long-term fate of Black-crowned Antpitta in the area is uncertain. Terrestrial bird species
are particularly vulnerable to human incursion, as almost every rural Panamanian seems to introduce multiple, free-ranging domestic fowl, cats, and dogs
(even the most well-heeled colonizers can be expected to bring dogs- and don't make me laugh by asking about Panamanian leash laws). It remains to be seen
how effective the efforts of environmentally-conscious Panamanians will be in keeping development in check; suffice to say that one would do well to see Black-crowned
Antpitta at the earliest opportunity!
At left is a nice shot of a very accomodating Black-crowned Antpitta found walking along the trail at El Copé in July of 2007, seen by Ken Allaire and Danilo, Armodio,
and Eliacer Rodríguez. Within this site's coverage area, this species is being seen and heard with increasing regularity at La Mesa, the plateau above El Valle de Antón, especially
near the head of the Las Minas Trail. As of early 2008 reports come in from this area at least a couple of times a month. It is hard
to say whether these birds represent a previously-undiscovered population or if habitat destruction in adjacent areas has forced
the antpittas to seek out new territory.
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