Ash-throated Gnateater

The ash-throated gnateater (Conopophaga peruviana) is a species of bird in the family Conopophagidae. It is found in Bolivia, Brazil, Ecuador, and Peru. == Taxonomy and systematics == The placement of ash-throated gnateater in a linear sequence remains unsettled. The Clements taxonomy places it between chestnut-belted gnateater (Conopophaga aurita) and Ceara gnateater (C. cearae), while the International Ornithological Committee (IOC) places it between hooded gnateater (C. roberti) and Ceara gnateater, with chestnut-belted gnateater preceding hooded. It is monotypic. == Description == The ash-throated gnateater is 11 to 12 cm (4.3 to 4.7 in) long and weighs 22 to 26 g (0.78 to 0.92 oz). The male's face, back, and breast are gray, with the back being darker and having a brownish wash. The crown is brownish, the throat white, and there is a white tuft behind the eye. The lower belly is brown. The female's face and breast are rufous and the upper parts are brown. == Distribution and habitat == The ash-throated gnateater is found in the upper Amazon Basin in eastern Ecuador, eastern Peru, far western Brazil, and slightly into Bolivia's La Paz Department. It primarily inhabits the open understory of terra firme forest, especially vine tangles and…