The Yucatan woodpecker is a species of bird in the family Picidae. It is sometimes referred to as the red-vented woodpecker. The Yucatan woodpecker is found in Belize and Mexico, and ranges over the entire Yucatán Peninsula. Its natural habitats are subtropical or tropical dry forests, subtropical or tropical dry shrubland, and heavily degraded former forest.
Region
Yucatán Peninsula and adjacent northern Central America
Typical Environment
Occurs across the Yucatán Peninsula in southeastern Mexico, throughout Belize, and into northern Guatemala (Petén). Prefers subtropical and tropical dry forest, thorn scrub, coastal scrub, and semi-open woodland. Common along forest edges, in second-growth thickets, savannas with scattered trees, and in agricultural areas and villages with palms. Frequently uses degraded habitats and coconut groves where suitable nest snags remain.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 250 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The Yucatan woodpecker is a small Melanerpes often confused with the larger Golden-fronted Woodpecker; size, a smaller bill, and a tiny red vent help separate it. It favors dry lowland habitats of the Yucatán Peninsula and readily uses edges, second growth, and coconut groves. Both sexes excavate nest cavities, often in dead palms or soft-wooded trees, and they help control wood-boring insects.
Temperament
alert and moderately tame near humans but territorial around nest sites
Flight Pattern
undulating with short, rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly, in pairs, or small family groups. Both sexes excavate cavities and share incubation and chick-rearing duties. Nests are typically in dead palms or soft branches, and the species readily reuses territories year to year.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations include sharp, squeaky chits and rolling chatter notes delivered in short series. Drumming is short and dry, used in territorial displays and pair communication.
