Malacoptila striata (von Spix, 1824)

Taxonomy and Size

The crescent-chested puffbird, with the scientific name Malacoptila striata (von Spix, 1824), measures 17.5 to 20 cm (6.9 to 7.9 in) in total length. The nominate subspecies M. s. striata weighs approximately 40 to 47 g (1.4 to 1.7 oz), while subspecies M. s. minor is smaller in size.

Nominate Subspecies Plumage

For the nominate subspecies, the head and upperparts are blackish with buffy streaks. The area around the bill on the face is rufous, and the bird has a buffy or white "moustache" marking. The wings are brown with buffy markings, and the tail is solid dark brown.

Underpart Markings

The upper breast features a white crescent shape, with a black band directly below it. The lower breast is rufous, the center of the belly is whitish, and the sides of both the breast and belly are dull brown with buffy scallop-shaped markings.

M. s. minor Plumage

M. s. minor has a brighter breast band, and its underparts are whiter with no barring present.

Nominate Subspecies Range

The nominate subspecies of the crescent-chested puffbird is found in southeastern Brazil, ranging from Bahia and Minas Gerais south to Paraná and Santa Catarina. M. s. minor occupies a small, disconnected range in the states of Maranhão and Piauí in Brazil's Northeast Region.

Habitat Preferences

This species lives in a variety of semi-open landscapes, including the edges of humid lowland forest, logged forest, and secondary forest. It is often found along roads and at clearing edges, but rarely occurs inside the forest interior.

Elevational Range

Its elevational range extends from sea level up to 2,100 m (6,890 ft).