Le pic à croupion rouge (Dryobates kirkii) mesure 16,5 cm de long et pèse 28 g. Il s'agit d'un petit pic relativement terne, brun olive sur le dessus et barré de brun et de blanc sur le dessous. Les deux sexes ont une nuque jaune et un croupion rouge (bien que cela puisse être difficile à voir). Les mâles ont également une couronne rouge. Recherchez des individus isolés ou des couples en quête de nourriture à tous les niveaux dans les forêts de plaine, les forêts secondaires et les mangroves. Il suit souvent des groupes d'espèces mixtes.
Habitats et répartition
The Red-rumped Woodpecker inhabits tropical and subtropical forests, woodlands, and mangroves, primarily favoring areas with dense tree cover and an abundance of dead or decaying wood, which is essential for foraging and nesting. It thrives in both primary and secondary growth forests, demonstrating a degree of adaptability to disturbed habitats. Geographically, this species is distributed across a range that spans much of Central and South America, from southern Mexico through Central America, reaching as far south as Colombia, Venezuela, and parts of Brazil and Peru. Its range includes a variety of altitudes, from lowland areas to montane forests, evidencing its versatility in different forested environments.
Comportements et reproduction
The Red-rumped Woodpecker exhibits a largely monogamous mating behavior. During the breeding season, typically between late April and August, pairs engage in mutual drumming and calling as courtship rituals. Nesting primarily occurs in tree cavities that both sexes help excavate. These woodpeckers demonstrate strong territoriality, aggressively defending their nesting sites from intruders. In terms of reproduction, both parents share responsibilities; after the female lays a clutch of typically 2 to 4 eggs, both the male and female incubate the eggs and later feed the chicks. This biparental care continues until fledging, with the young usually leaving the nest about three weeks after hatching. Unique among some woodpecker species, Red-rumped Woodpeckers will sometimes reuse old nesting cavities, either their own or those previously abandoned by other birds.
Régime alimentaire
Insectes, fourmis et sève d'arbre
Couleurs
Les adultes sont principalement de couleur or-olive sur le dessus, avec quelques taches chamois sur les ailes et un croupion rouge. Le dessous, blanc chamois, est finement barré de brun foncé et la queue est brun noirâtre.
Faits amusants
Le pic à croupion rouge mesure 16,5 cm de long et pèse 28 g.
Statut de conservation et efforts
The Red-rumped Woodpecker (Dryobates kirkii) is currently classified as a species of Least Concern on the IUCN Red List, suggesting that it is not at immediate risk of extinction. Despite this relatively secure status, the population trend is believed to be decreasing due to habitat loss and fragmentation. The primary threats include deforestation for agriculture, logging, and urban development, which reduce the availability of suitable nesting and foraging areas. Conservation efforts for the Red-rumped Woodpecker are generally integrated into broader initiatives aimed at preserving tropical and subtropical forest habitats. Protected areas and national parks play a crucial role in safeguarding critical habitats. Additionally, sustainable forest management practices and reforestation projects are being promoted to mitigate habitat destruction. Local conservation organizations often work on raising awareness and engaging communities in habitat preservation efforts to ensure the long-term survival of this species.
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