The lesser woodcreeper is a species of bird in the subfamily Dendrocolaptinae of the ovenbird family Furnariidae. It is found in Argentina, Brazil, and Paraguay.
Region
Atlantic Forest of South America
Typical Environment
Occurs in the Atlantic Forest from southeastern Brazil into eastern Paraguay and northeastern Argentina (Misiones). Prefers humid evergreen and semi-deciduous forests, using the interior as well as edges and older secondary growth. Also forages in shaded plantations and mature second-growth fragments where large trees remain. It typically occupies midstory to subcanopy strata while hitching up trunks and large branches.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1500 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A nimble bark-gleaner of the Atlantic Forest, the lesser woodcreeper braces with stiff tail feathers as it ascends trunks in search of insects. It often joins mixed-species flocks, quietly working midstory branches and trunks. Its slender, slightly decurved bill is adapted for probing crevices and flaking bark. Habitat loss in the Atlantic Forest affects the species locally, though it remains fairly widespread.
Temperament
quiet, wary, and methodical
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with direct, low flights between trunks
Social Behavior
Usually solitary or in pairs but frequently accompanies mixed-species foraging flocks. Nests in natural cavities or holes in decaying wood, lining the chamber with plant material. Clutch typically 2–3 eggs; both adults participate in care.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A thin, high series of clear whistles that often descends slightly, delivered from midstory perches. Calls include soft, sharp notes used to keep contact while foraging in flocks.
Plumage
Warm brown upperparts with fine buffy streaking on the head and breast, grading to plainer brown on the belly. Wings and tail show rufous tones; plumage appears lightly scalloped on the breast. Feathers are sleek and close-fitting, aiding its trunk-climbing habits.
Diet
Primarily small arthropods such as beetles, ants, termites, spiders, and caterpillars. Gleans insects from bark surfaces, moss, and lichen, and probes into crevices. Occasionally snatches prey from suspended dead leaves or epiphytes.
Preferred Environment
Forages on trunks and large limbs in the midstory and subcanopy of mature or well-structured forest. Also uses forest edges and older secondary growth where large trees are available.
