African Grey Woodpecker
NameAfrican Grey Woodpecker
Common NameAfrican Grey Woodpecker
Scientific NameDendropicos goertae
FamilyPicidae
Wingspan (cm)32
Length (cm)19
Weight (g)50
Plumage DetailsMales have a red crown and nape, while females have a grey crown and red nape. Both sexes display a grey head, olive-green upperparts, and pale greyish-white underparts, often with faint streaking. The rump and undertail coverts are a noticeable reddish color.
Vocalization / CallEmits a series of high-pitched, rapid 'wick-wick-wick' calls and a characteristic drumming sound used for communication and territorial display.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest, grassland, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across sub-Saharan Africa, ranging from Senegal and Gambia in the west, east to Ethiopia, and south to Angola and Zambia.
Identifying Featuresgrey head, olive-green back, red crown (male), red rump, typical woodpecker posture
Description
This medium-sized woodpecker is characterized by its grey head, olive-green back, and a distinctive red crown patch in males. It typically forages on tree trunks and branches, using its strong bill to probe for insects beneath the bark.
