Here at our Costa Rican mountain retreat, the symphony of the rainforest surrounds you. From the melodic calls of toucans to the vibrant screeches of scarlet macaws, every day brings a new avian encounter. Today, we turn our binoculars to a resident woodpecker, the chestnut-colored woodpecker (Celeus castaneus).

A Secretive Master of Camouflage

While not the most flamboyant bird, the chestnut-colored woodpecker is a captivating sight. At roughly 8.5 to 9.8 inches long, this medium-sized wonder boasts a plumage that embodies its namesake. Both sexes are adorned in rich chestnut brown on their upperparts, with a hint of cinnamon-buff coloring on their rumps. Black bars stripe their backs and uppertail coverts, adding a touch of contrast.

But here’s where things get interesting: the heads! Both males and females sport a unique, pointed crest, a shaggy crown of blond feathers that gives them a slightly unkempt look (think of it as a fashionable bedhead for the bird world). This crest, however, serves a dual purpose – it provides insulation in the cool mountain air and can be raised or lowered depending on the situation.

However, the most striking difference lies between the sexes. Males proudly display a vibrant red “mustache” that extends from their lores (the area between the bill and the eye) down to their throats. This bold splash of color adds a touch of flamboyance, making the males easily distinguishable from their female counterparts.

Despite their attractive plumage, chestnut-colored woodpeckers are masters of camouflage. Their coloring blends beautifully with the tree bark they frequent, making them a challenge to spot. Additionally, they tend to forage in the middle and upper levels of the rainforest canopy, further increasing the difficulty of observation. But for the patient birdwatcher, a glimpse of this elusive woodpecker is a reward worth waiting for.

Drummers in the Rainforest

Like all woodpeckers, the chestnut-colored woodpecker plays a vital role in the rainforest ecosystem. Their sharp beaks are perfectly adapted for drilling holes in trees, not for malicious purposes, but to extract insects and grubs hidden beneath the bark. This constant drumming not only provides them with a nutritious meal but also helps to control insect populations and keep the forest healthy.

The drumming also serves as a communication tool. The rapid, rhythmic tapping resonates through the trees, carrying messages between woodpeckers and marking territories.

A Resident of the Rainforest Realm

The chestnut-colored woodpecker is a resident of the humid tropical lowlands of Central America. Here at our mountain retreat, nestled amidst the lush rainforest, you have a good chance of encountering these fascinating birds. Keep an ear out for their drumming and train your eyes on the taller trees. With a bit of patience and a touch of luck, you might just catch a glimpse of this chestnut-colored wonder flitting through the leaves.

Tips for Spotting the Chestnut-colored Woodpecker

• Early mornings are prime time: Woodpeckers are most active in the early hours of the morning, so head out for a nature walk before the sun reaches its peak.
• Listen for the drumming: The telltale drumming sound is the easiest way to locate a woodpecker. Once you hear it, focus on the area and watch for movement.
• Scan the upper canopy: Look for birds perched on branches or trunks in the middle and upper levels of the trees.
• Patience is key: These woodpeckers can be shy, so don’t get discouraged if you don’t see one right away. Keep your eyes peeled and enjoy the beauty of the rainforest while you wait.

By following these tips and keeping your eyes peeled, you might just be rewarded with an unforgettable encounter with the chestnut-colored woodpecker, a dazzling resident of the Costa Rican rainforest.

For more information, please view our comprehensive guide about the birds of Costa Rica

This post is also available in: Français (French) Español (Spanish)