The ivory-billed woodcreeper is a species of bird in the subfamily Dendrocolaptinae of the ovenbird family Furnariidae. It is found in Belize, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico, and Nicaragua.
Region
Mesoamerica
Typical Environment
Occurs from southern Mexico through Belize, Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, and Nicaragua to northwestern Costa Rica. Prefers lowland and foothill tropical forests, semi-open woodlands, and forest edges. Common in second-growth and gallery forests and adapts to shaded plantations such as cacao or coffee. Forages mostly on trunks and large limbs, often from the understory up to mid-canopy.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Named for its pale, ivory-colored bill, this woodcreeper clings to trunks and large branches, probing bark for hidden insects. It often joins mixed-species flocks and will sometimes follow army ant swarms to catch flushed arthropods. Pairs nest in natural cavities or old woodpecker holes. Its presence helps control forest insect populations.
X. f. eburneirostris showing back pattern
Temperament
wary and unobtrusive
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats between trunks; mostly creeping rather than sustained flight
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly or in pairs, often accompanying mixed-species flocks. Nests in tree cavities, including old woodpecker holes or decayed palms. Likely monogamous, with both parents participating in feeding the young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Delivers clear, whistled phrases that may ascend or descend, often a mellow, piping series. Calls include sharp, thin notes and soft chatter given while foraging.
