Small, skulking bird of lowland river edges and flooded forests. Note short, white-tipped tail and scalloped appearance of wings. Usually seen in pairs; does not follow army ants or mixed-species flocks. Forages for insects on the ground and in low branches along edge of water; often noisy and not particularly shy. Somewhat similar to male Common Scale-backed Antbird, but has pale gray eyes and is more tied to riverine habitats.