Celeus loricatus
The Cinnamon Woodpecker (Celeus loricatus) is a striking medium-sized Neotropical woodpecker, easily recognized by its overall rich cinnamon to rufous-brown plumage. Measuring approximately 19-23 cm (7.5-9 inches) in length and weighing 63-79 grams (2.2-2.8 oz), it exhibits fine dark barring across its back and wings, often giving it a somewhat scaly appearance, which is reflected in its specific epithet "loricatus" (meaning armored or cuirassed). A prominent, shaggy crest of the same cinnamo...
Primarily inhabits humid evergreen forests, including primary and mature secondary growth, as well as forest edges and clearings. Typically found from lowlands up to elevations of about 1500 meters (5,000 feet).
Feeds primarily on insects, especially ants and termites, which it extracts from wood using its chisel-like bill and long, barbed tongue. Also consumes some fruits and berries.
The Cinnamon Woodpecker is generally diurnal, foraging actively during the day and roosting in tree cavities at night. It employs typical woodpecker foraging strategies, drumming and probing into dead or decaying wood, particularly for ants and termites, often scaling trunks and branches in searc...
The Cinnamon Woodpecker is a resident species distributed across Central and South America. Its range extends from southeastern Honduras and Nicaragua, through Costa Rica and Panama, and into northwestern South America. In South America, it is found along the Pacific slope of Colombia and Ecuador...
Least Concern
- The species name "loricatus" is Latin for "armored" or "cuirassed," likely referring to the finely barred pattern on its back that resembles scales or armor. - Unlike many woodpeckers that drum loudly to advertise territory, the Cinnamon Woodpecker's drumming is often less intense, and its voca...