Stierling's Woodpecker
NameStierling's Woodpecker
Common NameStierling's Woodpecker
Scientific NameDendropicos stierlingi
FamilyPicidae
Wingspan (cm)27
Length (cm)17
Weight (g)30
Plumage DetailsMales have a red crown and nape, while females have a black crown and nape. The upperparts are dull olive-brown, and the underparts are whitish with heavy dark olive-brown barring and streaking. The face shows a whitish background with a dark moustachial stripe and a dark stripe behind the eye.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a high-pitched, repeated 'kweek-kweek-kweek' or 'chick-chick-chick' call. It also produces a soft drumming sound.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusnear-threatened
Geographic RangeEndemic to south-central Africa, with a fragmented distribution across miombo woodlands in parts of Tanzania, Malawi, Mozambique, and Zambia.
Identifying FeaturesRed crown and nape (male), Dull olive-brown upperparts, Heavily barred whitish underparts, Dark moustachial and post-ocular stripes, Prefers miombo woodlands
Description
The Stierling's Woodpecker is a small to medium-sized woodpecker characterized by its dull olive-brown upperparts and heavily barred whitish underparts. Males display a distinctive red crown and nape. It typically forages in miombo woodlands, feeding on insects and occasionally fruit.
