What specialized ground-level foraging behavior is characteristic of the Worm-eating Warbler?
Answer
Probing into leaf litter and moss
The Worm-eating Warbler exhibits a specialized foraging niche that keeps it close to the ground, often distinct from canopy gleaners. Its behavior involves significant time spent on or near the forest floor, actively searching through accumulated leaf litter and moss layers. This technique, categorized as probing or flicking, allows it to specifically target ground-dwelling invertebrates like ants and small beetles, which form a substantial part of its year-round diet, a behavior linked to its ecological niche in shrubby areas.
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