The mottled piculet is a Near Threatened species of bird in subfamily Picumninae of the woodpecker family Picidae. It is found in Argentina, Brazil, and Uruguay.
Region
Southern Atlantic Forest and Southern Cone
Typical Environment
Occurs in southeastern South America, chiefly in southern Brazil, Uruguay, and northeastern Argentina. It favors forest edges, riparian woodland, secondary growth, and semi-open mosaics with scattered trees. Often uses bamboo thickets and vine tangles for foraging. Common in lowlands but may reach foothills where suitable habitat persists.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1200 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
One of the smallest woodpeckers, the mottled piculet forages on thin branches and twigs rather than hammering large trunks. Males show a tiny reddish forecrown, a handy field mark at close range. It is associated with the southern Atlantic Forest and adjacent woodlands, where habitat loss has contributed to declines. Despite its size, it excavates small nest cavities in soft, decayed wood.
Picumnus nebulosus in Quebrada de los Cuervos, Uruguay
Temperament
quiet and inconspicuous
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with brief undulations
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly or in pairs and often joins mixed-species flocks in the understory. Excavates a small cavity in soft or rotting wood for nesting, with both sexes participating. Breeding typically occurs in the austral spring to summer.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Gives thin, high-pitched trills and rapid, rattling notes. Calls are soft and easily overlooked, often a short series of squeaky chips rather than strong drumming.
