Middle American Leaftosser Sclerurus mexicanus Scientific name definitions

Although widespread, Middle American Leaftosser is uncommon in many regions. It forages solitarily or in pairs on the ground and is typically not associated with understory flocks. It is found in the interior humid broadleaf forest, where it actively flips leaves in search of invertebrate prey. Like other leaftossers, it is secretive and is most frequently found when heard or flushed. Middle American Leaftosser commonly gives a high-pitched call or a descending, clear, whistled song that varies slightly by population. When flushed, this leaftosser alights nearby and on a low perch. This species is similar in appearance to South American Leaftosser (Sclerurus obscurior), though these two species are believed to be allopatric. Special care should be given to birds observed at the southernmost limit of the range. The two differ subtly, with Middle American Leaftosser possessing a longer and slender bill, as well as a more rufous in the throat and upper breast that blends into a dark brown belly. These species are best distinguished by their song, Middle American Leaftosser has a slower fluid series of high-pitched downslurred whistles. Middle American Leaftosser nests in burrows dug into exposed embankments.