Campephilus gayaquilensis
The Guayaquil Woodpecker (*Campephilus gayaquilensis*) is a striking and robust member of the Picidae family, showcasing the impressive stature typical of the *Campephilus* genus. Measuring approximately 30-34 cm (12-13.5 inches) in length, it is one of the larger woodpeckers in its restricted range. Both sexes display a predominantly glossy black plumage with a prominent white rump and a broad white stripe extending from the base of the bill down the neck to the back, creating a bold V-shape...
This species primarily inhabits semi-deciduous and humid evergreen forests, gallery forests, and mature secondary growth woodlands, typically at elevations ranging from sea level up to around 1000 meters.
The diet of the Guayaquil Woodpecker consists primarily of large wood-boring beetle larvae, though they also consume adult beetles, other insects, and occasionally fruit. They forage by extensively excavating into bark and decaying wood.
Guayaquil Woodpeckers are diurnal, spending their days actively foraging, often in pairs or as solitary individuals. They are powerful excavators, using their strong bills to chisel into decaying wood or live trees, primarily targeting large wood-boring larvae. Foraging often involves systematic ...
The Guayaquil Woodpecker is endemic to the humid and semi-deciduous forests of western South America, specifically found in southwestern Ecuador and extending into extreme northwestern Peru. Its primary distribution covers the lowlands and foothills along the Pacific slope of the Andes. In Ecuado...
Least Concern
- The Guayaquil Woodpecker is one of the largest woodpeckers found in western South America, a true giant among its peers. - Its distinctive "double-tap" drumming sound is a signature auditory clue to its presence in its often dense forest habitat. - Males of this species boast an entirely red he...