Deep within the humid and wet forests of Panama, western Colombia, and western Ecuador lives the splendid woodpecker, an eye-catching and remarkable bird. For a long time, scientists considered it to be just a regional variation of the crimson-bellied woodpecker. However, modern research highlights the splendid woodpecker as a distinct species in its own right. It makes its home among the towering trees of wet mountain forests and lush jungles, ranging from near sea level up into the mountain slopes.

Both male and female splendid woodpeckers have a bright red forehead and head, unlike some woodpeckers where the sexes look very different. They also have a black chin and upper throat, with a black band through the eye. To tell them apart, look at their cheeks: males have a wide, pale band between the eye and throat, while in females, this band goes further down the neck to the upper breast. Their lower back and belly are deep red with dark stripes, making them stand out as they move through the trees.

The splendid woodpecker is known for more than just its bright feathers. It often searches for food lower on tree trunks than other woodpeckers, using its strong bill to dig for beetle larvae. Instead of the usual woodpecker tapping, it makes a fast, heavy double rap that echoes in the forest, followed by a harsh call that sounds like ‘eer.’ Because it is shy and likes thick, quiet forests, seeing one is rare. These birds stay in the same area all year, so they are a steady part of the tropical forest.

Distribution

Country

Population est.

Status

Year

Comments

Colombia

2023

Ecuador

2023

Panama

2023