Speckle-throated Woodpecker
NameSpeckle-throated Woodpecker
Common NameSpeckle-throated Woodpecker
Scientific NameCampethera scriptoricauda
FamilyPicidae
Wingspan (cm)38
Length (cm)21
Weight (g)60
Plumage DetailsMales have a red crown and nape, while females have a red nape with a black, white-streaked forecrown. Both sexes display a pale face with a dark malar stripe (red in males, black in females). The throat and breast are heavily speckled dark on a pale background, transitioning to pale underparts with dark barring. Upperparts are olive-green with pale barring or spotting.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a series of high-pitched, rapid 'wick-wick-wick' notes and a descending trill.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest, grassland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in East Africa, ranging from southern Kenya and Tanzania south through Mozambique and Malawi.
Identifying Featuresred crown (male), speckled throat, barred underparts, olive-green upperparts, dark malar stripe
Description
This medium-sized woodpecker is characterized by its red crown (in males), speckled throat, and barred underparts. It typically forages on trees in woodlands and savannas, seeking out insects.
