Eastern Grey Woodpecker
NameEastern Grey Woodpecker
Common NameGrey Woodpecker
Scientific NameDendropicos goertae
FamilyPicidae
Wingspan (cm)26.5
Length (cm)19
Weight (g)50
Plumage DetailsMales have a bright red crown and nape, while females have a grey crown. Both sexes exhibit a grey head, throat, and underparts, often with a faint greenish wash on the flanks. The back and wings are dull yellowish-green, and the rump and uppertail coverts are red.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a series of high-pitched, rapid 'ki-ki-ki-ki' notes that often accelerate and descend. It also produces a soft drumming sound.
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 Somalia, and south through much of central and eastern Africa to Angola and northern South Africa.
Identifying Featuresgrey head and underparts, red crown (male), yellowish-green back and wings, red rump, short, straight bill
Description
This medium-sized woodpecker is characterized by its predominantly grey head and underparts, contrasting with a red crown in males and yellowish-green wings. It typically forages on tree trunks and branches in open woodlands and savannas, searching for insects.
