The streak-breasted woodpecker is a species of bird in the family Picidae.
Region
Southeast Asia
Typical Environment
Occurs from mainland Southeast Asia into the Malay Peninsula, inhabiting lowland and foothill evergreen and semi-evergreen forests, forest edges, and mature secondary growth. It frequents areas with large trees for foraging and nest excavation, including riparian corridors and selectively logged forests. It may also appear in mixed agroforestry landscapes where remnant large trees persist. Deadwood and termite-rich substrates are key microhabitats for feeding.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The streak-breasted woodpecker is a medium-sized green woodpecker of Southeast Asian forests, named for the dark streaking across its pale buff breast. Males typically show a red crown, while females have more subdued head coloration. It excavates nest cavities in soft or decaying wood and drums to communicate and advertise territory. Like many woodpeckers, it specializes in ants and other wood-boring insects, probing bark and rotten timber with a strong chisel-like bill.
Illustration of an adult male
Temperament
generally shy and wary
Flight Pattern
undulating with rapid wingbeats between short glides
Social Behavior
Usually encountered singly, in pairs, or small family groups. Both sexes excavate nest cavities in dead or decaying wood and share incubation and chick rearing. Territorial drumming and vocal calls are used to maintain spacing during the breeding season.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Gives clear, ringing notes and sharp ‘klee’ or ‘kik’ calls, often repeated in short sequences. Drumming is a rapid roll on resonant deadwood, used for territory and pair communication.
