Guayaquil Woodpecker
NameGuayaquil Woodpecker
Common NameGuayaquil Woodpecker
Scientific NameCampephilus gayaquilensis
FamilyPicidae
Wingspan (cm)60
Length (cm)33
Weight (g)305
Plumage DetailsMales have an entirely red head and crest, with a small black patch around the eye. Females have a black forehead and crown, with a red crest and a white stripe extending from the bill to the neck. Both sexes have a mostly black body with a prominent white stripe on the shoulders/upper back, and a pale, chisel-tipped bill. The underparts are barred.
Vocalization / CallProduces loud, ringing calls often described as 'kew-kew-kew' or 'kyaah-kyaah-kyaah'. It also creates powerful, resonant drumming sounds on tree trunks.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusnear-threatened
Geographic RangeEndemic to western Ecuador and extreme northwestern Peru, primarily found in the Tumbes-Chocó-Magdalena biodiversity hotspot.
Identifying FeaturesLarge size, Bright red head and crest (male), Prominent white shoulder stripes on a dark body, Pale, chisel-tipped bill, Loud calls and drumming
Description
The Guayaquil Woodpecker is a large, striking woodpecker known for its prominent red head and crest in males, and a distinctive white stripe on its dark back. It forages by hammering into trees to extract insects, often in pairs or small family groups.
