El Piculet grisáceo (Picumnus granadensis) es único de Colombia y se reconoce por su aspecto moteado. Es una pequeña especie de pájaro carpintero que se encuentra en los bosques. Tiene un plumaje marrón grisáceo con dibujos intrincados, un pico corto y una cola rígida. Busca comida en los troncos de los árboles, buscando insectos y larvas. Pequeño pájaro carpintero que recuerda al trepador azul. Pico corto como un cincel y cola corta. Es de color marrón grisáceo por encima y ligeramente más pálido por debajo, sin estrías; destaca la corona oscura con pequeñas manchas blancas. Se encuentra en una gran variedad de hábitats forestales, incluso en los bordes y en el segundo crecimiento. Se arrastra por pequeñas ramas y lianas, a menudo colgando boca abajo. Sexos similares; los machos tienen manchas amarillas en la corona (no sólo blancas).
Hábitats y distribución
The Grayish Piculet inhabits subtropical or tropical moist lowland forests and subtropical or tropical moist montane forests. It is also found in heavily degraded former forests, indicating some adaptability to human-altered landscapes. These environments provide the dense vegetation and plentiful insect life that the species relies on for feeding and nesting. Geographically, the Grayish Piculet is primarily found in the northern Andes of Colombia and Venezuela. Its range extends across the slopes of these mountains, where it occupies both primary and secondary growth forests. This bird is typically seen at altitudes ranging from 500 to 2,500 meters, with a preference for lower elevation forests.
Comportamiento y reproducción
Grayish Piculets engage in monogamous mating habits, where pairs form stable bonds that often last for multiple breeding seasons. They generally build their nests in tree cavities, which they excavate themselves, usually choosing soft or decayed wood for ease of drilling. Nesting duties are shared between both partners, from the excavation process to incubation and feeding of the young. Socially, these birds are relatively shy and tend to be seen either alone or in pairs, seldom forming large flocks. During the breeding season, they become particularly territorial and may engage in vocal displays to ward off rivals. Their reproductive strategy involves laying a small clutch of eggs, typically two to four, ensuring that both parents can provide adequate care and food for the fledglings, enhancing the offspring's survival rate.
Dieta
Insectos y sus larvas
Colores
Marrón grisáceo con alas barradas
Datos curiosos
Restringido al oeste de Colombia. A diferencia de otros pájaros carpinteros, no tamborilea en los árboles.
Estado y esfuerzos de conservación
The Grayish Piculet (Picumnus granadensis), listed as Near Threatened on the IUCN Red List, has seen its population trend decline mainly due to habitat loss. This bird, endemic to the subtropical forests of Colombia, faces significant threats from deforestation driven by agricultural expansion, logging, and human settlement. These activities result in the fragmentation of its habitat, reducing viable living and breeding spaces. Conservation efforts for the Grayish Piculet include habitat preservation and restoration initiatives. Protected areas have been established to safeguard critical habitats, and reforestation projects aim to reconnect fragmented forests. Organizations are also working with local communities to promote sustainable land use practices, thereby reducing the pressure on the species' natural habitats. Environmental education campaigns are underway to raise awareness about the bird's plight, encouraging community-driven conservation actions.
Galería
