Melanerpes striatus
The Hispaniolan Woodpecker (Melanerpes striatus) is a strikingly patterned, medium-sized woodpecker endemic to the Caribbean island of Hispaniola. Measuring 22-28 cm (8.7-11 inches) in length and weighing 65-92 g (2.3-3.2 oz), it boasts a distinctive black-and-white barred back and wings, a yellowish-orange wash on its belly, and black primary feathers. A key identification feature is its head coloration: males display an extensive red crown extending from the forehead to the nape, while fema...
Found in a wide range of tropical and subtropical moist forests, dry woodlands, open pine forests, agricultural plantations, and even urban areas across Hispaniola, from sea level to elevations of over 2,000 meters.
An omnivorous species, its diet primarily consists of insects (especially ants, beetles, and their larvae), supplemented significantly with a variety of fruits, berries, and occasionally tree sap.
Hispaniolan Woodpeckers are diurnal, highly active birds often observed in pairs or small family groups, though loose foraging aggregations can occur. They are expert foragers, employing a variety of techniques including probing into bark crevices, gleaning insects from surfaces, and excavating d...
The Hispaniolan Woodpecker is a resident, non-migratory species found exclusively on the island of Hispaniola, which comprises the Dominican Republic and Haiti. Its distribution covers the entire island, from arid coastal scrublands to humid montane forests, demonstrating remarkable adaptability ...
Least Concern
- The Hispaniolan Woodpecker is the largest and most widespread true woodpecker endemic to the island of Hispaniola. - Unlike many woodpeckers that specialize in insectivory, this species has a notably omnivorous diet, consuming large amounts of fruit. - They are known to nest not only in trees b...