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Overview
Zimmer's woodcreeper

Zimmer's woodcreeper

Wikipedia

Zimmer's woodcreeper is a Near Threatened species of bird in the subfamily Dendrocolaptinae of the ovenbird family Furnariidae. It is found in Brazil, Colombia, and Peru.

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Distribution

Region

Western and central Amazon Basin

Typical Environment

Occurs along major white-water rivers in Brazil, Colombia, and Peru, especially on river islands and young floodplain (várzea) edges. Prefers early-successional woodlands with Cecropia, Tessaria, and cane (Gynerium) thickets, as well as secondary growth along channels. It forages from near the ground to the midstory, usually on trunks, larger branches, and vine tangles. Generally absent from mature terra firme forest away from river corridors.

Altitude Range

0–400 m

Climate Zone

Tropical

Characteristics

Size19–21 cm
Wing Span25–30 cm
Male Weight0.032 kg
Female Weight0.03 kg
Life Expectancy6 years

Ease of Keeping

Beginner friendly: 1/5

Useful to know

Zimmer's woodcreeper is a river-island specialist of the western and central Amazon, typically found in young, dynamic floodplain forests and canebrakes. It creeps up trunks and along branches, probing bark and crevices for arthropods with a long, nearly straight bill. Its dependence on early-successional riverine habitats makes it vulnerable to damming and river regulation that reduce island turnover. It is often seen singly or in pairs and may join mixed-species flocks along river edges.

Gallery

Bird photo
Bird photo
Bird photo
Bird photo

Behaviour

Temperament

solitary and territorial

Flight Pattern

short rapid wingbeats between perches

Social Behavior

Usually seen alone or in pairs, moving methodically up trunks and along branches. Occasionally associates with mixed-species flocks along river edges. Nests in natural cavities or crevices in trees or dead snags typical of riverine forests, with both adults participating in care.

Migratory Pattern

Resident

Song Description

Song is a short, thin series of high, slightly descending whistles. Calls include sharp, penetrating seep or tsee notes given from exposed perches along river margins.

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