Campephilus guatemalensis
The Pale-billed Woodpecker (*Campephilus guatemalensis*) is a majestic and impressive inhabitant of Central American and southern Mexican forests, recognized as the largest woodpecker in its range. Averaging 35-38 cm (14-15 inches) in length and weighing 280-350 grams, this powerful bird commands attention. Males are strikingly adorned with an entirely crimson-red head, neck, and a prominent crest, contrasted by an otherwise glossy black body and a distinctive white line tracing from below th...
Inhabits humid evergreen and semi-deciduous forests, mature secondary growth, and riparian woodlands, typically found from sea level up to 1,200-1,500 meters.
Feeds primarily on large wood-boring beetle larvae, ants, and other insects extracted by powerful excavation and bark peeling; occasionally consumes fruit.
This diurnal woodpecker is typically observed singly or in pairs, tirelessly foraging throughout the day. Its primary foraging method involves vigorous scaling of bark and chiseling deep, rectangular holes into dead or decaying wood, often removing large chunks. Pale-billed Woodpeckers are highly...
The Pale-billed Woodpecker is a resident species found throughout a broad geographic distribution spanning from southern Mexico, across Central America, and into western Panama. Its range extends from southern Tamaulipas and Veracruz in Mexico, south through Oaxaca and Chiapas, covering the entir...
Least Concern
- Often called the 'Carpenter Woodpecker' due to its incredible ability to chisel large pieces of wood with its powerful bill. - It is the largest woodpecker species found throughout its extensive range in Central America. - Its distinctive foraging technique leaves behind rectangular holes and l...