Crimson-crested Woodpecker

Campephilus gayaquilensis

The Crimson-crested Woodpecker (Campephilus gayaquilensis) is a striking bird found in the humid forests of western Ecuador and northwestern Peru. This woodpecker is known for its vibrant crimson crest and black and white plumage. It is a medium-sized woodpecker with a strong, chisel-like bill used for excavating insects from tree bark. The species is often observed foraging for insects and larvae in dead or decaying trees. The Crimson-crested Woodpecker plays an important role in its ecosystem by contributing to the natural process of decomposition and nutrient recycling within the forest.

Habitat: Humid forests of western Ecuador and northwestern Peru