The crimson-bellied woodpecker is a species of bird in the subfamily Picinae of the woodpecker family Picidae. It is found in Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru.
Region
Andes Mountains
Typical Environment
Occurs on the humid foothill and lower montane slopes of the Andes in Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru. It inhabits evergreen and semi-evergreen forests, especially mature stands with large-diameter trees and abundant deadwood. The species forages from mid-level trunks to the canopy, also using edges and older secondary forest where big snags persist. Nesting is in cavities excavated high in dead or decaying trees.
Altitude Range
400–2000 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This large Andean woodpecker is named for its striking crimson belly and is often detected by its powerful double-knock drumming that carries through humid forests. It plays an important role in controlling wood-boring insects and creates nest cavities later used by other wildlife. Sensitive to extensive forest loss, it favors mature trees and large snags for foraging and nesting.
Male (1 & 3) and female (2)
Temperament
wary and somewhat secretive
Flight Pattern
powerful direct flight with bounding undulations
Social Behavior
Usually seen in pairs or family groups that maintain territories year-round. Monogamous pairs excavate nest cavities high in large snags or dying trees, reusing or enlarging cavities in subsequent years. Drumming is prominent in territory advertisement, often delivered as a loud double knock.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations include loud, ringing notes and harsh calls used to keep contact through dense forest. The characteristic non-vocal display is a resonant double-knock that carries over long distances.
