Mottled Piculet
NameMottled Piculet
Common NameMottled Piculet
Scientific NamePicumnus nebulosus
FamilyPicidae
Wingspan (cm)18
Length (cm)9.5
Weight (g)10
Plumage DetailsUpperparts are dark brown, finely barred with white or buff. Underparts are whitish to buff, heavily mottled or barred with dark brown, creating a scaly appearance. The head is dark with white spotting, and males possess a red patch on the forecrown. The tail is short and dark with white outer feathers.
Vocalization / CallTypically a soft, high-pitched 'tsip' or 'tsee' call, often repeated. It also produces a rapid, quiet drumming sound.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in southeastern South America, specifically in southern Brazil, eastern Paraguay, and northeastern Argentina.
Identifying FeaturesVery small size, Mottled/barred brown and white plumage, Short tail, Red crown patch (male), Forages on small branches and twigs
Description
This tiny woodpecker, the Mottled Piculet, features a distinctive mottled brown and white plumage, particularly on its underparts, and a short tail. Males are identifiable by a bright red patch on their forecrown. It quietly forages for insects on small branches and twigs in its forest habitat.
