The Ceara woodcreeper or Atlantic woodcreeper is a Vulnerable species of bird in the subfamily Dendrocolaptinae of the ovenbird family Furnariidae. It is endemic to Brazil.
Region
Northeastern Brazil (Atlantic Forest and humid forest enclaves)
Typical Environment
Occurs in fragmented Atlantic Forest remnants and humid montane ‘brejos’ of northeastern Brazil, including Ceará, Paraíba, Pernambuco, and Alagoas. It uses mature and tall secondary forests, gallery forests, and forest edges, but prefers interior tracts with complex structure. Birds forage from the understory to mid-canopy, most often on trunks and larger branches. Its occurrence is patchy and closely tied to remaining forest cover and elevation-driven moisture.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1000 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Also known as the Atlantic woodcreeper, it was split from the Lesser Woodcreeper complex, reflecting distinct vocal and genetic differences. It is tied to remnants of Brazil’s Atlantic Forest and humid forest enclaves, where ongoing deforestation is the principal threat. Often joins mixed-species flocks, making it more detectable by sound than sight. Conservation actions focus on protecting remaining forest fragments.
Temperament
skulking and wary
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats between trunks; brief, undulating hops in the midstory
Social Behavior
Typically encountered singly or in pairs and frequently joins mixed-species flocks of insectivores. Pairs maintain territories and communicate with soft contact notes. Nests in natural cavities or crevices, often in decaying trees, with both adults participating in care.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A clear, thin series of descending whistles delivered in a measured pace, often given from midstory perches. Calls include sharp, high 'tseet' notes used to stay in contact within flocks. Vocalizations carry well in dense forest.
