Mulleripicus fuliginosus
A stately, medium-large woodpecker, the Southern Sooty Woodpecker (Mulleripicus fuliginosus) cuts a striking figure in the Philippine forests. Measuring approximately 30-34 cm (12-13 inches) in length, it is characterized by its uniform, dark sooty-brown to blackish plumage, giving it an almost monochromatic appearance. A robust, dark grey bill and dark eyes complete its somber yet powerful look. Distinctive sexual dimorphism is evident, with males proudly displaying a vibrant crimson malar s...
Primarily inhabits primary and mature secondary lowland evergreen forests and forest edges, from sea level up to elevations of about 1,500 meters, occasionally higher.
Feeds primarily on wood-boring insects, including ants, termites, and various beetle larvae, extracted from tree trunks and branches through drilling and gleaning.
The Southern Sooty Woodpecker is a diurnal species, active from dawn to dusk, often seen singly or in pairs, sometimes joining mixed-species foraging flocks. It roosts overnight in self-excavated tree cavities. Foraging typically involves systematically scaling large tree trunks and branches, usi...
The Southern Sooty Woodpecker is an endemic resident species to the Philippines, found across a wide distribution of the archipelago's islands. Its primary range encompasses major islands such as Luzon, Polillo, and Catanduanes, representing the subspecies `M. f. fuliginosus`. Further south, the ...
Least Concern
- The Southern Sooty Woodpecker is entirely endemic to the Philippines, making it a unique avian treasure of the archipelago. - Its scientific name, `Mulleripicus fuliginosus`, literally translates to "Muller's sooty woodpecker," referencing its dark plumage. - Males are easily distinguished by a...