Dryocopus schulzii
The Black-bodied Woodpecker, Dryocopus schulzii, is a striking, large woodpecker native to the dry Chaco forests of south-central South America. Measuring approximately 30-34 cm (12-13.5 inches) in length and weighing between 180-250 grams, it presents a bold appearance dominated by glossy black plumage. Key field marks include a conspicuous white lower back and rump, especially visible in flight, and a distinct white patch on the upperwing coverts. Males are readily identified by their promi...
Primarily inhabits dry Chaco forests, open woodlands, and gallery forests, typically found at elevations below 800 meters.
Feeds primarily on arboreal ants, termites, and the larvae of wood-boring beetles, extracted by powerful excavation of tree trunks.
The Black-bodied Woodpecker is generally observed singly or in pairs, exhibiting a largely diurnal activity pattern as it forages for sustenance. These powerful birds employ characteristic Dryocopus foraging techniques, scaling large tree trunks and branches to excavate deep into decaying or live...
The Black-bodied Woodpecker is endemic to the Gran Chaco biome of south-central South America. Its primary breeding and year-round range extends across northern Argentina (from Salta and Jujuy east to Formosa and Chaco provinces), central and eastern Paraguay, southeastern Bolivia (Santa Cruz dep...
Near Threatened
- The Black-bodied Woodpecker is one of the least studied species within the Dryocopus genus, making every sighting a valuable contribution to ornithological knowledge. - Its scientific name, Dryocopus schulzii, honors the German natural history collector Guillermo Schulz, who first discovered th...