White-spotted Woodpecker
NameWhite-spotted Woodpecker
Common NameWhite-spotted Woodpecker
Scientific NameVeniliornis spilogaster
FamilyPicidae
Wingspan (cm)28
Length (cm)19
Weight (g)50
Plumage DetailsUpperparts are olive-brown with fine white spotting and barring, particularly noticeable on the wings and tail. The underparts are paler, heavily barred with dark brown. The head is olive-brown with fine white streaks and spots; males often exhibit a reddish wash or cap on the crown.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include sharp, high-pitched 'peek' or 'chip' notes, often delivered in a rapid series. Like other woodpeckers, it also drums on trees.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeThis species is found in southeastern Brazil, eastern Paraguay, northeastern Argentina, and Uruguay, inhabiting various types of forests including humid, secondary, and gallery forests.
Identifying FeaturesOlive-brown plumage with white spotting and barring, Small to medium size for a woodpecker, Males with a reddish crown (can be subtle), Typical woodpecker posture on tree trunks
Description
The White-spotted Woodpecker is a small to medium-sized woodpecker characterized by its cryptic, olive-brown plumage with extensive white spotting and barring. It typically forages on tree trunks and branches, often in humid or secondary forests.
