Scarce arboreal antbird found in cloud forest along the east slope of the Andes. Its brown and buff plumage, facial pattern, and behavior make it much more likely to be confused with a foliage-gleaner than with other antbirds, but note the stout bill with a hooked tip. Found at middle levels of the forest, and usually encountered with mixed-species flocks. Gives a series of about 8 shrill whistles as well as a faster, rising chatter. No overlap with Russet Antshrike, from which this species was recently split.