Xiphorhynchus ocellatus
The Ocellated Woodcreeper (*Xiphorhynchus ocellatus*) is a striking Neotropical passerine, a member of the woodcreeper family (Dendrocolaptidae) which is nested within the broader Furnariidae (ovenbirds and woodcreepers). Measuring 19-21 cm (7.5-8.3 in) in length and weighing 30-40 g (1.1-1.4 oz), its plumage is predominantly olive-brown to rufous-brown, heavily adorned with distinctive pale, 'ocellated' (eye-like) spots and streaks on its head, nape, throat, and underparts, creating a beauti...
Found primarily in lowland and foothill tropical and subtropical moist broadleaf forests, often favoring areas near water, terra firme, or seasonally flooded forests.
Feeds primarily on arthropods, including insects and spiders, which it extracts from bark and decaying wood using its robust, slightly decurved bill.
Diurnal, the Ocellated Woodcreeper typically forages alone or in pairs, but frequently joins mixed-species foraging flocks, often acting as a core member. Its specialized foraging technique involves methodically spiraling up tree trunks and branches, probing crevices and gleaning arthropods from ...
The Ocellated Woodcreeper boasts a broad distribution across the Amazon Basin and adjacent regions of South America. Its breeding range encompasses southeastern Colombia, eastern Ecuador and Peru, northern Bolivia, the Guianas, southern and eastern Venezuela, and a vast portion of Brazil. While p...
Least Concern
- The name "Ocellated" refers to the distinctive eye-like spots that adorn its plumage, a beautiful and effective camouflage in dappled forest light. - Despite its resemblance to a woodpecker in foraging style, it belongs to the woodcreeper family, which are actually specialized songbirds. - It's...