Description of the nest, eggs and nestling of the Black-breasted Gnateater, Conopophaga snethlageae (Aves: Conopophagidae), with emphasis on nesting behavior

Abstract

ABSTRACT Knowledge regarding the reproductive biology of the Conopophaga genus remains limited, particularly concerning nesting behavior, parental care, and division of tasks between parents. In this study, we present the first description of the nest, eggs, and nestlings of the Black-breasted Gnateater, Conopophaga snethlageae, alongside monitoring nest activity using a camera trap in forests of the Tapajós region, in the Brazilian Amazon. Over 32 days, we recorded 502 nest activities, of which only one of the two eggs successfully hatched, which was preyed on by a snake on its 13th day of life. Our observations shed light on distinctive parental roles, with the female actively involved in incubation and the male taking on a more significant role in caring for the nestling. These findings enhance our understanding of reproductive strategies within Conopophaga and provide a foundation for future studies on the breeding biology and conservation of the genus.

Keywords

• Amazon
• camera trapping
• Neotropical birds
• nest predation
• reproductive biology