Zeledon's Antbird

Zeledon's antbird was formally described as a distinct species in the early 21st century following extensive molecular phylogenetic research. Previously categorized as a subspecies of the immaculate antbird, the species was separated due to significant genetic divergence and clear vocalization differences. It is named in honor of José Castulo Zeledón, a prominent Costa Rican ornithologist whose foundational work in the 19th and early 20th centuries proved essential to the study of Neotropical birds.

The physical characteristics of Hafferia zeledoni, including its rounded wings and notched tail, are specialized adaptations for its habitat within the dense understory of humid forests ranging from Nicaragua to western Panama. These features facilitate agile, short-distance flight through tangled vegetation. Scientific reception of its elevation to species status has been largely positive, as it aligns with modern taxonomic efforts to better represent avian biodiversity in Central America through refined field observation and genetic analysis.