Gray-breasted Woodpecker
NameGray-breasted Woodpecker
Common NameGray-breasted Woodpecker
Scientific NameMelanerpes hypopolius
FamilyPicidae
Wingspan (cm)38
Length (cm)21.5
Weight (g)55
Plumage DetailsAdults have a plain gray head, neck, and breast. The back and wings are boldly barred black and white. Males possess a red crown patch, while females have a smaller or absent red patch. The belly is often tinged yellowish, and the undertail coverts are barred.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations include a series of sharp, churring or rattling calls, often described as 'churr-churr-churr' or a rapid 'krr-krr-krr'.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsdesert, forest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeEndemic to Mexico, found in the arid and semi-arid regions of the Pacific slope and interior, including dry forests, thorn scrub, and cactus forests.
Identifying Featuresplain gray breast, black and white barred back, red crown (male), black bill, clings to cacti and trees
Description
This medium-sized woodpecker is characterized by its plain gray breast and underparts, contrasting with a boldly barred black and white back. It typically forages on cacti and trees in arid and semi-arid environments, often seen clinging vertically to trunks.
