Celeus torquatus
The striking Ringed Woodpecker (Celeus torquatus) is a medium-sized, distinctive member of the Picidae family, captivating birders with its unique appearance and behavior. Measuring approximately 27-29 cm (10.6-11.4 in) in length and weighing around 100-130 grams (3.5-4.6 oz), this species is easily identified by its prominent, broad black band or "collar" encircling its neck, starkly contrasting with its otherwise rich cinnamon-rufous plumage. Its shaggy crest, often held erect, and pale yel...
Found in tropical and subtropical moist broadleaf forests, including gallery forests, cerrado woodlands, and secondary growth from sea level up to approximately 1000 meters.
Primarily an insectivore, specializing in ants and termites, including their larvae and eggs, which it extracts using a long, barbed tongue; also consumes some other insects and fruits.
The Ringed Woodpecker is a diurnal species, typically observed foraging alone or in pairs high in the canopy, though it may descend to lower strata for specific insect nests. Its foraging technique involves powerful, repeated blows to tear open arboreal and terrestrial ant and termite nests, util...
The Ringed Woodpecker exhibits a somewhat disjunct distribution across Central and South America. The northern population spans from southeastern Honduras, through Nicaragua, Costa Rica, and Panama, extending into western Colombia and western Ecuador. A more extensive southern population covers e...
Least Concern
- The Ringed Woodpecker's common name comes from the prominent black "necklace" or collar that encircles its neck. - It's a specialist ant and termite eater, capable of tearing into the toughest arboreal nests with its powerful beak. - Unlike many woodpeckers that probe, the Ringed Woodpecker oft...