The yellow-eared woodpecker is a species of bird in subfamily Picinae of the woodpecker family Picidae. It is endemic to eastern Brazil.
Region
Eastern Brazil (Atlantic Forest)
Typical Environment
Occurs in humid and semi-humid Atlantic Forest, including forest edges, secondary growth, and shaded plantations such as cabruca cacao. It favors midstory to canopy levels and often works along thin trunks, dead limbs, and vine tangles. The species tolerates some disturbance and can remain in mosaics of forest fragments and agroforestry. It is most frequently recorded in eastern Brazilian states within the Atlantic Forest belt.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The yellow-eared woodpecker is a small Atlantic Forest specialist distinguished by a bright yellow ear patch. It forages quietly on slender trunks and branches, often joining mixed-species flocks. Males show some red on the crown, while females lack this or show reduced red. Habitat loss in Brazil’s Atlantic Forest affects the species locally, though it persists in secondary growth and shaded agroforests.
Temperament
quiet and unobtrusive
Flight Pattern
undulating with short, rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly, in pairs, or family groups, and often associates with mixed-species flocks while foraging. Excavates nest cavities in dead or decaying wood; both sexes participate in nesting duties. Territorial calls and soft drumming are used to maintain pair bonds and territory.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are a soft series of pik or chik notes, delivered intermittently and often from cover. Drumming is short and subdued compared with larger woodpeckers, serving primarily as a contact or territorial signal.
