Distinctive antpitta found only in high-elevation cloud forest on the east slope of the Andes in northern Peru. Adult has chestnut upperparts, gray underparts, a black face and throat, a chalky white bill, and a red eye. The rarely-seen juvenile is mostly gray with cinnamon barring. Inhabits forest understory in areas with abundant bamboo. Suitable habitat near roads has been mostly cleared for farmland, so seeing this bird usually involves a tough hike over steep terrain. It usually stays on the ground unless singing. Song is a leisurely series of hollow hoots; the second note is typically lower in pitch than the others.