Bennett's Woodpecker
NameBennett's Woodpecker
Common NameBennett's Woodpecker
Scientific NameCampethera bennettii
FamilyPicidae
Wingspan (cm)32.5
Length (cm)22
Weight (g)60
Plumage DetailsMales have a bright red crown and nape, a white face with a red malar stripe, and pale underparts heavily spotted with black. The back and wings are olive-green barred with yellowish-white. Females have a black-spotted white crown and red nape.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a series of high-pitched, rapid 'wick-wick-wick' notes that often accelerate and descend. They also engage in drumming on trees.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest, grassland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in southern Africa, ranging from Angola and the Democratic Republic of Congo south to South Africa, and east to Tanzania and Mozambique.
Identifying Featuresred crown (male), spotted underparts, barred olive-green back, red malar stripe, woodpecker posture
Description
This medium-sized woodpecker is characterized by its striking plumage and arboreal habits. It forages primarily for insects on tree trunks and branches, often in savanna woodlands. Males display a prominent red crown and nape.
