The red-crowned woodpecker is a species of bird in the subfamily Picinae of the woodpecker family Picidae. It is found in Costa Rica, Panama, Colombia, Venezuela, Guyana, Suriname, and Tobago.
Region
Central America and northern South America
Typical Environment
Occurs from southwestern Costa Rica through Panama into northern Colombia and northern Venezuela, extending east to Guyana and Suriname, and on the island of Tobago. It favors open woodlands, forest edges, second growth, mangroves, plantations, and towns. Frequently found in coconut groves, shade coffee, and gardens where mature trees or utility posts provide nesting sites.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1800 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This adaptable woodpecker thrives in human-modified landscapes, often nesting in fence posts, coconut palms, and urban parks. Males show a bright red crown and nape, while females usually have red only on the nape, making sexing in the field straightforward. It helps control insect populations and readily takes fruit, sometimes visiting backyard feeders in its range.
Female M. r. rubricapillus, Tobago
Temperament
active and noisy
Flight Pattern
undulating flight with short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Typically seen singly or in pairs, maintaining small territories centered on nest or roost cavities. Pairs excavate nest holes in trees, palms, or posts and are generally monogamous. Outside of breeding, small family groups may form and occasionally join mixed-species foraging flocks.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Calls are sharp chits and rattling churrs, often given in rapid series during territorial displays. Drumming is short and repeated, used to advertise territory and attract mates.
