The little spotted woodpecker or green-backed woodpecker, is a species of bird in the family Picidae. It is native to large parts of tropical central Africa. It has an extensive range and is an uncommon species, and the International Union for Conservation of Nature has rated its conservation status as being of "least concern".
Region
Central and East Africa
Typical Environment
Occupies tropical lowland and submontane forests, forest edges, riverine woodland, and secondary growth. It adapts well to disturbed habitats, including clearings and plantations, provided there are trees and deadwood for foraging and nesting. Often forages in the mid-story and lower canopy, and will descend to lower trunks and larger branches.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 2000 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Also known as the green-backed woodpecker, this small African woodpecker favors forest edges and secondary growth where ants and termites are abundant. Males typically show a red crown while females have a darker, spotted crown, a useful field mark. It relies more on vocalizations than on drumming, which is relatively weak and infrequent for this genus.
Temperament
shy and unobtrusive
Flight Pattern
undulating with short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly, in pairs, or small family groups, and often joins mixed-species flocks when foraging. Nests are excavated in dead or decaying wood; both sexes participate in excavation and incubation. Breeding timing varies locally across its range.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Gives sharp, high-pitched notes and short rattling trills, often repeated in series. Drumming is soft and brief compared to many other woodpeckers, with vocal calls used more frequently for communication.
