Crimson-crested Woodpecker

The Crimson-crested Woodpecker occurs in both eastern and western Ecuador, inhabiting lowland and foothill forests, forest edges, and semi-open woodlands from sea level up to about 1,200 meters. Though generally uncommon, it is locally present and often seen perched high on snags or large trees, where it delivers loud, resonant drumming and forages for wood-boring insects. The species is listed as Least Concern by the IUCN, with a broad Neotropical range and a stable population, though it may be sensitive to extensive deforestation. Natural history observations highlight its cavity-nesting behavior, striking sexual dimorphism, and preference for mature forest habitats, where it plays a key role in ecosystem dynamics by excavating nesting sites used by other species.