Red-stained Woodpecker
NameRed-stained Woodpecker
Common NameRed-stained Woodpecker
Scientific NameVeniliornis affinis
FamilyPicidae
Wingspan (cm)32
Length (cm)18
Weight (g)38
Plumage DetailsMales have a distinctive red crown and nape, while females have a streaked crown. Both sexes feature a yellowish face with a dark eye-stripe, rufous-chestnut upperparts, and yellowish underparts with fine dark barring. The back and wings are predominantly rufous-chestnut, contrasting with the barred underparts.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a series of sharp, high-pitched 'peek-peek-peek' notes or a rapid 'kik-kik-kik-kik'. Like other woodpeckers, it also engages in drumming on trees, though its drumming is generally less powerful than larger species.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeThe Red-stained Woodpecker is found in South America, primarily across the Amazon basin and adjacent regions. Its range extends through parts of Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, Brazil, and the Guianas.
Identifying FeaturesRed crown and nape (male), Yellowish face with dark eye-stripe, Rufous-chestnut back and wings, Yellowish underparts with dark barring, Small to medium size for a woodpecker
Description
This small to medium-sized woodpecker is characterized by its striking plumage and active foraging behavior. It typically climbs tree trunks and branches in humid forests, searching for insects and larvae beneath the bark. Often observed alone or in mixed-species flocks, it uses its strong bill to excavate wood.
