Cream-colored Woodpecker

*Top 50 Target Species

In Ecuador, the Cream-colored Woodpecker is an uncommon but striking resident of humid lowland forests, mangroves, and forest edges, where it forages for arboreal ants and termites, often seen pecking at termite nests on tree trunks. With its pale yellow plumage, long crest, and dark wings, it is unmistakable in the field, and males sport a vivid red malar stripe. Though not migratory, its range spans much of the Amazonian basin, including Pastaza Province, and habitat loss is expected to gradually impact its population despite its current IUCN status of Least Concern. Its breeding season and nesting habits in Ecuador remain poorly documented, adding a layer of mystery to this charismatic forest dweller.