The ochre-backed woodpecker is a species of bird in subfamily Picinae of the woodpecker family Picidae. It is endemic to Brazil.
Region
Northeastern Brazil
Typical Environment
Found in the Caatinga, Cerrado edges, and patches of semi-deciduous and gallery forest, as well as wooded savanna and scrub. It uses forest edges, secondary growth, and dry woodland with scattered trees, including areas with cacti and bromeliads. The species also occurs in plantations and orchards where suitable large trees or termitaria are present. It typically forages from the lower to mid canopy but will descend to trunks and larger branches.
Altitude Range
0–1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Once treated as a form of the Blond-crested Woodpecker, it is now recognized as a distinct species endemic to Brazil. Males show a red malar stripe absent in females, a typical sex difference in many woodpeckers. It frequently exploits arboreal termite nests and softer dead wood, drumming to communicate and to excavate nest cavities.
Temperament
wary and often secretive
Flight Pattern
undulating flight with short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually encountered singly or in pairs, sometimes accompanying mixed-species flocks at forest edges. Pairs are likely monogamous and excavate nest cavities in soft, decayed trunks or large branches, and occasionally in arboreal termitaria. Both sexes drum and participate in territory defense.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations include nasal, squealing notes and sharp kek or kwee calls, often given in series. Drumming is a short, rapid roll used for communication and advertisement.
