Golden-tailed Woodpecker
NameGolden-tailed Woodpecker
Common NameGolden-tailed Woodpecker
Scientific NameCampethera abingoni
FamilyPicidae
Wingspan (cm)37.5
Length (cm)21.5
Weight (g)60
Plumage DetailsMales have a red crown and nape with a red malar stripe, while females have a red nape and a black malar stripe. Both sexes exhibit a white supercilium, dark ear coverts, and a white throat streaked with black. The upperparts are olive-green to golden-green with white or pale yellow spots, and the underparts are white or pale yellow, heavily spotted and barred with black. The tail feathers are distinctively golden-yellow, barred with dark brown.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations include a characteristic repeated 'wick-wick-wick' call, a high-pitched 'kweek-kweek-kweek', and typical woodpecker drumming.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest, grassland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across sub-Saharan Africa, from Senegal and Gambia in the west, east to Ethiopia, and south through much of central and southern Africa to South Africa.
Identifying FeaturesRed crown (male) or nape (female), Golden-green back with white spots, Heavily spotted and barred underparts, Golden-yellow tail feathers, Black bill
Description
The Golden-tailed Woodpecker is a medium-sized woodpecker found in sub-Saharan Africa. It is characterized by its spotted underparts, greenish back, and a prominent red crown or nape. This species primarily forages on trees for insects, often found in woodlands and savannas.
