The speckled piculet is a species of bird in the family Picidae. It is found in Indian, China and Southeast Asia.
Region
Himalayan foothills and mainland Southeast Asia
Typical Environment
Occurs from the Himalayan foothills of northern India and Nepal through Bhutan and northeastern India into Bangladesh, Myanmar, southern China (including Yunnan and Guangxi), and much of mainland Southeast Asia to Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, and Cambodia. Prefers moist broadleaf forests, secondary growth, forest edges, and bamboo thickets. Frequently uses tangled vines and small branches where it gleans tiny prey. It also adapts to wooded parks and gardens near forested areas when cover is available.
Altitude Range
200–2400 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Among the tiniest woodpeckers in Asia, the speckled piculet often forages on slender twigs and bamboo where larger woodpeckers cannot. Males typically show a small yellowish to orange forecrown patch. It excavates tiny nest cavities in soft wood or bamboo and gives high, thin calls rather than loud drumming. Its unobtrusive habits make it easy to overlook despite being fairly widespread.
Temperament
inconspicuous, active, and agile
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with brief undulations
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly, in pairs, or in family parties; often joins mixed-species flocks in the canopy and midstory. Nests in small cavities excavated in soft wood or bamboo, with both sexes participating. Territorial displays include soft tapping and subtle head movements rather than loud drumming.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
High, thin see-see or tsi-tsi notes delivered in quick series, often repeated from a concealed perch. Soft tapping and quiet trills replace the loud drumming typical of larger woodpeckers.
