Kingdom Animalia Order Piciformes Genus Celeus Higher classification Celeus | Phylum Chordata Family Picidae Scientific name Celeus flavus Rank Species | |
Similar Woodpecker, Celeus, Bird, Ringed woodpecker, Chestnut woodpecker | ||
Cream colored woodpecker delta orinoco thore noernberg birdwatching
The cream-colored woodpecker (Celeus flavus) is unmistakably recognizable by its pale but distinct yellow plumage and beak, long erect crest, dark brown wings and black tail. The male is differentiated by the female by its thick bright red malar stripe. The yellow plumage may darken to a browner or darker tone if soiled. The cream-colored woodpecker is 24–26 cm in height and weighs 95-130g.
Contents
- Cream colored woodpecker delta orinoco thore noernberg birdwatching
- Cream colored woodpecker
- Taxonomy
- Range and Habitat
- Vocalization
- Diet
- Breeding
- Status and Conservation
- References
Cream colored woodpecker
Taxonomy
The four recognized sub-species of Celeus flavus are C. f. flavus, C.f. peruvianus, C.f. tectricialis and C.f. subflavus. These sub-species interbreed and produce many intermediates, blurring their original designated geographical boundaries. C.f. subflavus is significantly larger than its nominate, weighing on average 200g.
Range and Habitat
Native to South America, from Colombia, Venezuela and the Guianas to Peru, Bolivia, and the eastern part of Brazil, including a southeast Brazil coastal strip. The cream-colored woodpecker inhabits rainforests, mangroves, forests near water, deciduous woodland as well as cacao plantations. It does not migrate.
Vocalization
The cream-colored woodpecker emits a high-pitched laugh: "wutchuk kee-hoo-hoo-hoo" or "pueer, pueer, purr, paw" with the final note in a lower pitch. During interaction with other bird species, it may repeat "kiu-kiu-kiu-kiu". Less raspy and higher pitched than vocalizations of Chestnut woodpeckers (Celeus elegans).
Diet
Diet consists mainly of arboreal ants and termites, but generally supplemented by seeds and fruit. Forages singly and in groups, on trees as well as the ground. Frequently sighted pecking at termite nests on trees.
Breeding
April to June in Colombia and slightly earlier in Venezuela. Nesting habits have not been documented.
Status and Conservation
The cream-colored woodpecker is considered as generally uncommon but has been established as of Least Concern status. However, due to decreases every year in suitable habitat, it is predicted to decrease in population numbers over the next few decades.