The blond-crested woodpecker is a species of bird in the woodpecker family Picidae. It is found in Argentina, Brazil, and Paraguay.
Region
Eastern South America
Typical Environment
Occurs mainly in eastern and southern Brazil and adjacent Paraguay and northeastern Argentina, centered on the Atlantic Forest and nearby woodlands. It inhabits humid and semi-humid forests, gallery forests, secondary growth, forest edges, and wooded parks. The species tolerates moderately disturbed habitats and can appear in plantations with scattered large trees. It forages from mid-story to canopy and occasionally comes lower along forest edges.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1500 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This striking woodpecker is recognized by its pale blond, shaggy crest contrasting with a darker body. Males show a red malar stripe that females lack. It excavates nest cavities in dead trees and helps control ants and termites, making it an important forest insectivore.
Temperament
alert and somewhat shy, usually in pairs
Flight Pattern
undulating flight with bursts of rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Typically seen in pairs or small family groups within year-round territories. Both sexes excavate nest cavities in dead wood and share incubation and chick-rearing. Courtship includes crest displays and mutual drumming.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are loud, nasal calls given singly or in short series, carrying well through forest. Drumming is medium-paced and resonant, used for communication and territorial advertisement.
