South-eastern Brazil from southern Bahia (at least formerly) and Espírito Santo south to eastern Paraná and eastern Santa Catarina.
 
Population
Estimated population is unknown (2010) and decreasing.
Status NT
Habitat destruction and degradation through mining, conversion to agriculture, fires are the main threats.
For more information see BirdLife International Species Factsheet.
Slaty Bristlefront (Merulaxis ater) [XC344938]
by Jeremy Minns from Ubatuba, SP. Folha Seca, Brazil (song)
Slaty Bristlefront (Merulaxis ater) [XC342100]
by Rodrigo Dela Rosa from Paraibuna, S\u00e3o Paulo, Brazil (call)
Subspecies
No subspecies.
Probably forms a superspecies with Stresemann's Bristlefront (Merulaxis stresemanni) and may perhaps be conspecific, but differs in general size, in proportions of bill and feet, and in vocalizations.