Kaempfer's Woodpecker
NameKaempfer's Woodpecker
Common NameKaempfer's Woodpecker
Scientific NameCeleus obrieni
FamilyPicidae
Wingspan (cm)42.5
Length (cm)27
Weight (g)112.5
Plumage DetailsThe head and prominent crest are rufous-chestnut. The nape and upper back are black, contrasting with the head. Underparts are yellowish-buff, heavily barred with black on the flanks and belly. The wings are dark brown with a rufous wash, and the rump is whitish. The bill is pale, and the eye is dark.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a series of high-pitched, rapid 'wick-wick-wick' notes that often accelerate and descend in pitch, similar to other Celeus woodpeckers. It also produces sharp 'kew' or 'kyeew' calls.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusvulnerable
Geographic RangeEndemic to a fragmented range in eastern Brazil, primarily found in the states of Maranhão, Piauí, Bahia, Minas Gerais, Goiás, and Tocantins, with potential occurrences in adjacent Bolivia.
Identifying FeaturesRufous-chestnut head and crest, Black nape, Yellowish-buff underparts with black barring, Pale bill, Dark brown wings with rufous wash
Description
This medium-sized woodpecker is characterized by its striking rufous-chestnut head and crest, contrasting with a black nape and yellowish-buff underparts distinctly barred with black. It is an elusive species typically found foraging for insects in the canopy of humid lowland forests.
