Planalto Slaty Antshrike

The planalto slaty antshrike (Thamnophilus pelzelni) is a species of bird in subfamily Thamnophilinae of family Thamnophilidae, the "typical antbirds". It is endemic to Brazil. == Taxonomy and systematics == The planalto slaty antshrike was long treated as a subspecies of T. punctatus, which was then called the slaty antshrike. Following the results of a study published in 1997, the slaty antshrike was split into six species, of which the planalto slaty antshrike is one. To avoid confusion the remnant T. punctatus was given its present name of northern slaty antshrike. The planalto slaty antshrike is monotypic. == Description == The planalto slaty antshrike is about 14 cm (5.5 in) long and weighs 16 to 20 g (0.56 to 0.71 oz). Members of genus Thamnophilus are largish members of the antbird family; all have stout bills with a hook like those of true shrikes. This species exhibits significant sexual dimorphism. Adult males have a mixed black and gray forehead and a black crown. Their back is gray with a few black spots and a hidden white patch between their scapulars. Their face is gray. Their wings and wing coverts are brownish black with white spots and edges. Their tail is…