Celeus ochraceus
The Ochre-backed Woodpecker, *Celeus ochraceus*, is a strikingly beautiful and distinctive member of the Picidae family, endemic to the humid forests of eastern Brazil. Measuring approximately 27-29 cm in length, its plumage is a rich, uniform golden-ochre to tawny-buff, subtly barred with dusky markings on the wings and tail, giving it a somewhat monochromatic yet vibrant appearance. A prominent, shaggy crest of elongated feathers crowns its head, contrasting with its long, chisel-like ivory...
Primarily inhabits humid lowland and foothill forests, including disturbed and secondary growth areas, occasionally extending into more open savanna woodlands. Typically found at elevations below 500 meters.
Almost exclusively ants and termites, extracted by excavating into wood or insect nests.
This arboreal woodpecker is primarily diurnal, typically observed foraging singly or in pairs within the forest canopy and understory. Its foraging strategy focuses on excavating dead wood, bark, and especially ant and termite nests using its strong, ivory-colored bill and specialized tongue. It ...
The Ochre-backed Woodpecker is endemic to eastern Brazil, with its primary distribution centered within the Atlantic Forest biome. Its breeding range extends from the northeastern states of Alagoas and Sergipe south through Bahia, Minas Gerais, Espírito Santo, and Rio de Janeiro. Inland populatio...
Least Concern
- Its striking golden-ochre plumage is almost monochromatic, a rare trait among woodpecker species, earning it its common name. - The male's vivid red malar stripe is its only splash of color, making it a clear indicator of sex. - Its calls are famously described as sounding like a whinnying hors...